Niger Governor Says Incident Has Attracted Local and International Attention
Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has described the deaths of 37 artisanal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) as unfortunate and tragic.
Bago spoke on Tuesday when he received a delegation of traditional rulers led by the Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers and Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, at the Government House in Minna.
The governor said the incident had attracted significant local and international attention, while thanking the traditional rulers for their condolence visit and support.
He commended traditional rulers across the state for their role in maintaining peace and harmony, particularly through ward and village heads.
Bago also acknowledged the efforts of the Emirs, including the Emir of Minna, Umar Faruk Bahago, in keeping their communities calm following the incident.
The governor said Niger State continued to face security challenges but noted that his administration was working with the Federal Government to address them and promote peace and stability.
Earlier, the Etsu Nupe described the deaths of the 37 miners as tragic and prayed for the repose of their souls.
Yahaya urged Bago to remain steadfast in leading the state and prayed for continued wisdom and strength for the governor.
He also called on stakeholders to comply with laws and regulations governing their activities, stressing that adherence to the law was essential for peace and harmonious coexistence in Niger State.