Federal Government Offers Condolences Over Niger Tragedy

The Federal Government has conveyed deep condolences regarding the tragic loss of life following an incident involving individuals arrested during enforcement operations against suspected illegal mining activities in the Wushishi/Lukoto area of Niger State. Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, communicated the government's sorrow to Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, the traditional leadership, and the families of the deceased.

Idris emphasized the need for a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Immediate actions have been taken, including the suspension of Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, the Niger State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), by Minister of Interior Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

Idris reassured that the investigation would determine the facts and that justice would be served. He urged calm in the region and expressed the government's commitment to protecting human rights during enforcement operations against illegal mining.