The Federal Government has expressed sorrow regarding the tragic loss of life that occurred following the incident involving individuals apprehended during enforcement operations targeting suspected unlawful mining activities in the Wushishi/Lukoto region of Niger State.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, communicated the Federal Government’s condolences to the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, the State’s Government and populace, the traditional leadership and residents of Wushishi, and notably the families and relatives of those who perished.
Idris, through a statement authenticated by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, stated that the Federal Government considers the safeguarding of Nigerian citizens’ lives, dignity and fundamental rights as a paramount obligation, emphasizing that the circumstances surrounding these deaths necessitate a comprehensive, transparent and impartial inquiry.
He highlighted that the Federal Government had promptly undertaken measures to ascertain the facts, with the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, mandating the suspension of the Niger State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, and initiating a comprehensive investigation into the occurrence.
“The expeditious measures implemented by the Honourable Minister of Interior demonstrate the gravity with which the Federal Government approaches this situation. The investigation shall be permitted to determine precisely what transpired, and the Government assures Nigerians that suitable measures will be implemented according to its conclusions,” Idris stated.
The Minister emphasized that although the Federal Government remains dedicated to suppressing unlawful mining and other criminal activities that jeopardize national security, economic resources and environmental integrity, all enforcement operations must be executed in accordance with legal standards and with deference to human life and dignity.
“There will be no attempt to shield anyone found culpable. At the same time, we mustn’t prejudge the outcome of the investigation. The Government’s responsibility is to ensure that the facts are established and that justice is served.”
Idris appealed for calm in Wushishi and across Niger State, urging residents and all concerned parties to allow the investigation to proceed without interference.
He assured the families of the deceased and the people of Niger State that the Federal Government shares in their grief and remains committed to ensuring that the circumstances surrounding the tragedy are fully established.
The Minister prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and for Almighty Allah to grant their families, the Wushishi community, and the Government and people of Niger State the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.
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