FG CONDOLIES WITH THE STATE OF NIGER FOR THE WUSHISHI TRAGEDY AND ENSURE A THOROUGH INVESTIGATION

FG CONDOLIES WITH THE STATE OF NIGER FOR THE WUSHISHI TRAGEDY AND ENSURE A THOROUGH INVESTIGATION

By Sarah Kitka

The Federal Government has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives following an incident involving persons arrested during enforcement operations against suspected illegal mining activities in the Wushishi/Lukoto axis of Niger State.

The Honorable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has conveyed the condolences of the Federal Government to the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, the Government and people of the State, the traditional leadership and people of Wushishi, and especially the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives.

Idris said the Federal Government considers the protection of the life, dignity and fundamental rights of every Nigerian to be a solemn responsibility, stressing that the circumstances surrounding the deaths require a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation.

He noted that the Federal Government had already taken immediate measures to establish the facts, with the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, ordering the suspension of the Niger State Commander of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, and directing a full investigation into the incident.

“The swift action taken by the Honorable Minister of Home Affairs underlines the seriousness with which the Federal Government views the matter. The investigation will establish exactly what happened and the Government assures Nigerians that appropriate action will be taken based on the findings,” Idris said.

The Minister stressed that while the Federal Government remains committed to combating illegal mining and other illegal activities that threaten national security, economic resources and the environment, all enforcement operations should be conducted in accordance with the law and with respect for human life and dignity.

“There will be no attempt to protect anyone found guilty. At the same time, we must not prejudge the outcome of the investigation. The government’s responsibility is to ensure that the facts are established and that justice is done,” he said.

Idris appealed for calm in Wushishi and across Niger State, urging residents and all stakeholders to allow the investigation to proceed without interference.

He assured the families of the victims and the people of Niger State that the Federal Government shares their grief and remains committed to ensuring that the circumstances of the tragedy are fully ascertained.

The Minister prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and that Almighty Allah grant their families, Wushishi community, government and people of Niger State the strength and courage to bear the loss.