The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State Chapter, has expressed condolences to Governor Umaru Bago and the people of Niger State following the deaths of 37 artisanal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

The CAN delegation visited Governor Bago at the Government House in Minna to sympathise with the state over the incident and offer prayers for the deceased and their families.

The miners died on September 17 after they were arrested during NSCDC operations targeting suspected illegal mining in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State on September 15 and 16.

The circumstances surrounding the deaths remain under investigation. The Federal Government has constituted an independent 10-member committee to investigate the incident, while the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Aniviye, and other officers have been suspended pending the outcome of investigations.

CAN Visits Bago Over Miners’ Deaths

During the visit, CAN officials expressed sympathy to Governor Bago and the people of Niger State over the deaths.

The governor appreciated the Christian body’s leadership for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of solidarity with the government and people of the state.

The visit came amid growing attention surrounding the circumstances in which the 37 detainees died.

According to reports, 67 artisanal and suspected illegal miners had been taken into NSCDC custody following enforcement operations against illegal mining, with 37 later found dead. The exact cause of the deaths has not yet been conclusively established.

Bago Says Incident Has Drawn Wide Attention

The governor has described the deaths as unfortunate and acknowledged the significant attention the incident has attracted within Nigeria and internationally.

Bago made the remarks while receiving a separate delegation of traditional rulers led by the Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers and Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar.

He said the state was dealing with several challenges, including insecurity, but maintained that his administration was working with the Federal Government to promote peace and stability across Niger State.

The governor also commended traditional rulers across the state for their role in maintaining peace and harmony within their respective communities.

Traditional Rulers Condemn Deaths

The Etsu Nupe, who led the traditional rulers’ delegation, described the deaths of the 37 artisanal miners as tragic.

He prayed for the souls of the deceased and urged Governor Bago to remain steadfast in dealing with the challenges confronting the state.

The traditional ruler also called on stakeholders to comply with laws and regulations governing their activities, stressing that adherence to established rules was important for peaceful coexistence.

Investigation Into Deaths Continues

The deaths have prompted investigations by both the Federal Government and the NSCDC.

Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo inaugurated a 10-member independent investigative committee on September 22 and directed officials to preserve all records and evidence connected with the incident.

“All records and material evidence connected to this incident, I have directed that they must be preserved and made available. Let me sound a very strong note of warning: any attempt by anybody to destroy or conceal evidence, intimidate witnesses or obstruct this investigation will be treated as a serious offence against the nation and it will not be tolerated.

“If it ever happens, I give you my word, the full hammer of the law will descend on such an individual,” he said.

The committee has two weeks to complete its investigation and submit its findings to the Minister of Interior.

Tunji-Ojo also said no individual would be protected if found responsible for the deaths.

“To Nigerians, I say this: we owe you the truth. This committee will give you the truth. No officer, no matter how highly placed, or any individual will be shielded if found culpable.”

Questions Remain Over Circumstances of Deaths

The NSCDC initially attributed the deaths to a suspected disease outbreak, while other accounts have raised questions about the conditions in which the detainees were held.

Survivors and relatives have made allegations concerning overcrowding and the treatment of detainees, while Governor Bago has previously said possible exposure to hazardous substances was among the factors being considered.

Bago earlier said 37 people died in one of three cells at the facility and described signs observed on the bodies that raised questions about possible chemical or poisonous-substance exposure. However, the definitive cause of death remains subject to investigation.

The Federal Government’s investigative committee is expected to examine the arrests, detention conditions, medical attention provided to the detainees and the events that preceded their deaths.

Niger State Faces Continued Security Challenges

Beyond the miners’ deaths, Governor Bago acknowledged that Niger State continues to face security challenges.

He said his administration was working with the Federal Government to strengthen security and maintain stability across the state.

Bago also praised traditional institutions for supporting efforts to maintain law and order, particularly through ward and village heads.

The governor specifically acknowledged the contribution of the Emir of Minna, Umar Faruk Bahago, and other traditional leaders in helping communities remain calm following the incident.

CAN Visit Comes Amid Calls for Accountability

The CAN condolence visit comes as families of the deceased and other stakeholders await the findings of the government investigation.

The Federal Government has said the investigation will examine responsibility, negligence, misconduct and other circumstances surrounding the deaths and recommend appropriate action where necessary.

For the families of the 37 deceased miners, the investigation is expected to clarify what happened inside the NSCDC facility and establish the circumstances that led to the deaths.

The CAN delegation’s visit to Governor Bago therefore adds a religious and community dimension to the expressions of sympathy surrounding the incident, while official investigations continue to determine what happened and whether anyone should be held responsible.

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