Coalition Supports Investigation into Niger Miners' Deaths

The Coalition of Civil Societies for Transparency and Accountability has expressed support for the Federal Government's investigation into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Niger State. National Coordinator Bilal Galadima stated that anyone found culpable should face the law, urging that accountability should be based on the investigation's findings.

The deaths occurred following the arrest of over 50 suspected illegal miners by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) during operations on September 15 and 16. The Federal Government has suspended officers linked to the incident and formed a 10-member independent committee tasked with identifying the deceased, examining their arrest and detention, determining the cause of death, and identifying any negligence or misconduct.

The committee has two weeks to submit its report. The NSCDC reported that the cause of death remains unestablished, with allegations of overcrowding and inadequate ventilation at the detention facility.

Galadima emphasized the need for focus on the investigation rather than calls for the removal of NSCDC Commandant-General Prof. Ahmed Audi.