Northern Governors Demand Thorough Probe Into Death Of 37 Miners In Niger NSCDC Custody

The Northern States Governors’ Forum, NSGF, has demanded a thorough and transparent investigation into the death of 37 persons while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Niger State.

Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, in a statement issued on Friday on behalf of his colleagues, said the loss of so many lives, particularly while the victims were in custody, was a matter of grave concern.

Governor Yahaya described the incident as a deeply distressing national tragedy that demands responsible action.

He said relevant authorities must establish the facts and determine what happened before, during and after the victims were taken into custody.

“We must allow the facts to emerge through a credible investigation. The families of the deceased deserve answers, and Nigerians deserve clarity on the circumstances surrounding this painful tragedy,” Yahaya said.

He stressed that regardless of the circumstances surrounding their arrest, every human life is valuable and must be treated with dignity and protected in accordance with the law.

The Forum chairman conveyed condolences to the government and people of Niger State, as well as the families and loved ones of the deceased.

He commended authorities for initiating investigations and urged all relevant agencies to ensure the process is comprehensive, transparent and capable of establishing the truth.

He also appealed for calm and restraint among residents, particularly affected families and communities, stressing that justice and accountability are best served when investigations are allowed to proceed without interference.

Yahaya prayed for Almighty Allah to repose the souls of the deceased.