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The Commanding General of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, along with his management team and other selected officers, on Thursday, September 24, visited Minna, Niger State, to commemorate the 7-day Fidau Prayers for the miners who died in the custody of the Corps.
During the visit, the CG also met with His Majesty, Alhaji (Dr.) Umar Farouk Bahago, at Minna Palace, the parents of the deceased and the surviving families of the victims. The visit aims to directly sympathize with the victim’s family during this time of grief. During the interaction, the Central Government expressed its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and gave unequivocal assurances that the Corps will not protect anyone found guilty, stressing that justice and transparency will come first.
Speaking during a visit at the Emir’s palace, the CG reiterated his firm stance in ensuring justice is served in the tragic incident that claimed the lives of 37 suspected illegal miners. He stated that the Corps would not protect any personnel found guilty, and emphasized that transparency and accountability would guide the entire process. “I would like to assure you of my unwavering support to the investigative panel in uncovering the truth. I am here to sympathize with you on behalf of the NSCDC, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. This incident is very unfortunate but I assure you that justice must be served. Anyone found to have committed an offense during these findings will be prosecuted in accordance with the laws of the land. We will not patronize anyone and everyone found guilty will face the music.”
The CG, who joined the bereaved families and members of the community in praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased, described the incident as a painful loss and assured the families that the Corps would be with them during their time of mourning. He also expressed his condolences to the Emir of Minna, recognizing the fatherly role of the traditional ruler in society and asking for his continued support and prayers.
Addressing the broader steps taken to uncover the truth, the CG noted that the Federal Government, under the direction of the President, has set up a high-powered investigative committee to probe the incident. He assured the public that the NSCDC is fully cooperating with the panel, and noted that the relevant personnel have been placed in protective custody so that they are fully prepared for a transparent investigation process.
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Highlighting the cultural and spiritual significance of the third and seventh day prayers for the deceased, CG explained that his visit was also to join the Muslim community in offering prayers for the repose of the soul of the deceased and strength for the bereaved family.
Responding on behalf of traditional institutions and families, His Excellency expressed appreciation to the Commanding General for the prompt administrative action taken, for his cooperation with the President’s committee, and for deeming it appropriate to personally visit and identify with the community in their time of grief.
As a mark of mourning and accountability, the NSCDC flag has been ordered to be flown at half-mast in all formations for three days. The Corps is awaiting autopsy results to determine the exact cause of death.
