The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of illegal miners who were in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.
The minister directed the NSCDC Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, to conduct a “full-scale, transparent and unhindered investigation” into the incident.
Following the directive, Audi ordered the Niger State Commandant to immediately step aside and report to the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja to appear before the panel set up to investigate the deaths.
The state commandant is expected to report to the panel alongside the Heads of Operations, Mining, Legal, Intelligence and Investigation, who have also been directed to appear before the inquiry.
Audi has subsequently ordered another commandant to proceed to Niger State and take over the leadership of the state command with immediate effect.
The development follows concerns surrounding the deaths of illegal miners while they were in NSCDC custody, prompting the Interior Ministry to seek a detailed examination of what happened and whether any officers or procedures contributed to the incident.
In a statement signed by the NSCDC National Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi, the corps said the investigation would be conducted thoroughly and without interference.
The NSCDC said any personnel found to have violated the law, established procedures or professional standards would face appropriate sanctions.
“The CG assures the Hon Minister of Interior that no stone would be left unturned in the investigation process,” the statement said.
The corps further explained that officers found culpable could face administrative or disciplinary action and, where applicable, criminal prosecution in line with existing laws and regulations.
“appropriate administrative, disciplinary and, where applicable, criminal sanctions in accordance with extant laws and regulations.”
The NSCDC also reaffirmed its responsibility to safeguard the rights and welfare of individuals held in its custody.
“The NSCDC remains committed to upholding the dignity, safety and fundamental rights of every person in its custody,” the statement said.
The corps said the investigation would not affect its statutory responsibilities, including tackling illegal mining and protecting critical national assets across the country.
However, it stressed that such enforcement activities must be carried out within the boundaries of the law and according to established professional standards.
The Interior Ministry’s directive and the subsequent changes within the Niger State Command are expected to pave the way for an independent examination of the circumstances surrounding the deaths and determine whether any officers or procedures require further action.
Source: NSCDC
