Federal Government Grieves 37 Miners' Deaths in Niger State

On September 18, the Federal Government reacted with sorrow to the deaths of 37 alleged illegal miners during an enforcement operation in Wushishi, Niger State. Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris extended condolences to Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, traditional leaders, and the victims' families.

Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo ordered the immediate suspension of the Niger State Commandant of the Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and mandated a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Idris stated that the federal government would not shield anyone found responsible for wrongdoing and urged the public to await the investigation's findings.

He reiterated the government's commitment to fighting illegal mining, which poses threats to national security and the environment, while emphasizing that enforcement operations must respect the rule of law and human dignity. Idris called for calm in Wushishi and assured the deceased's families that the government shares in their grief.