The Emir of Minna, Umar Faruq Bahago, has commended Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago for constituting a 20-member committee to investigate the deaths of 37 artisanal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The youths were arrested on September 15 and 16 around the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis and reportedly died in NSCDC custody on September 17.
In a statement from his palace, Bahago said the investigation must establish what happened before and after the youths were detained.
“It is imperative that we ascertain the real and scientific cause of death, including the condition of arrest, condition of detention, medical attention, ventilation, and crowding so as to guide against future occurrence and ensure accountability,” he said.
He also appealed for calm, particularly among youths, and warned against taking the law into their own hands.
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“Do not take laws into your hands. Let us allow the investigation to take its full course,” Bahago said.
He urged anyone with credible information about the incident to report to the Committee, now constituted by the state government.
The Emir condoled with the families of the victims and Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, describing the deceased as “sons of Niger State.”
He also urged parents and community leaders to discourage youths from illegal mining and other unlawful activities.
Bahago prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and for strength for their families.
