Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has described the deaths of 37 artisanal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) as unfortunate, saying the incident has attracted significant attention both within Nigeria and internationally.
Bago made the remarks on Tuesday when he received a delegation of traditional rulers led by the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, who visited the Government House in Minna to offer condolences.
The governor acknowledged that Niger State was facing several challenges, including insecurity, but said his administration was working with the Federal Government to address the situation and promote peace and stability across the state.
He also commended traditional rulers for their role in maintaining peace and harmony within their communities, particularly through the activities of ward and village heads.
Bago thanked the traditional rulers for visiting and expressing sympathy over the deaths, describing their gesture as an indication of leadership and solidarity with the government and people of Niger State.
He further appreciated the traditional institutions for their continued cooperation with his administration in maintaining law and order across the state.
The governor specifically acknowledged the efforts of the state’s Emirs, including the Emir of Minna, Umar Faruk Bahago, for helping to keep their communities calm following the incident.
Earlier, the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, described the deaths of the 37 artisanal miners as tragic and prayed for Allah to forgive their souls.
He urged Governor Bago to remain steadfast in leading the state and prayed for continued guidance, wisdom and strength for the governor.
The traditional ruler also commended Bago’s efforts towards promoting peace and development in Niger State.
He called on stakeholders to comply with the rules and regulations governing their activities, stressing that adherence to the law was necessary to maintain peace and harmonious coexistence in the state.
The deaths of the miners have continued to attract public attention, with calls for accountability and clarification over the circumstances surrounding what happened while the men were in NSCDC custody.
