The Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has deployed a team of experts to Niger State to investigate the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Faruk Yabo, who led the delegation to Niger State, said the team of experts would conduct a thorough investigation and produce a detailed report on the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
He described the incident as tragic and unacceptable, stressing that mining activities should contribute to development and should not result in the loss of lives.
“I extend the deepest condolences of the minister and ministry to the governor, his cabinet and the people, especially the families of the victims of this highly tragic incident,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary assured mining workers that the ministry would take steps to prevent a recurrence, emphasising the need for strict compliance with established procedures and safety standards in mining operations.
Responding, Governor Umaru Bago thanked the ministry for the visit, saying it was too early to draw a conclusion on the cause of the deaths.
According to the governor, preliminary information available to the state government suggests that the victims may have died from suffocation or exposure to poisonous substances.
Bago said the Federal Government experts would complement the committee of inquiry already established by the state government to investigate the incident.
The governor also announced the suspension of all mining activities across Niger State pending the conclusion of the ongoing investigations.
He urged the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to work closely with the state government to strengthen enforcement and promote responsible mining practices across the state.
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