FG orders probe into Wushishi tragedy, suspends Niger NSCDC commandant
The federal government has ordered a thorough investigation into the deaths of persons arrested during an enforcement operation against suspected illegal mining activities in the Wushishi/Lukoto axis of Niger State.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, conveyed the government’s condolences to Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, the traditional leadership and people of Wushishi, and the families of those who lost their lives.
Idris said the circumstances surrounding the deaths required a “thorough, transparent and impartial investigation”, stressing that the protection of the lives, dignity and fundamental rights of Nigerians remained a responsibility of the federal government.
The government’s position followed the suspension of the Niger State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
Tunji-Ojo also directed a full investigation into the incident to establish what led to the deaths.
“The swift action taken by the Honourable Minister of Interior underscores the seriousness with which the Federal Government views this matter. The investigation will be allowed to establish exactly what happened, and the Government assures Nigerians that appropriate action will be taken based on its findings,” Idris said.
The minister said the Federal Government remained committed to tackling illegal mining and other unlawful activities that threaten national security, the economy and the environment.
He, however, stressed that enforcement operations must be carried out within the law and with respect for human life and dignity.
