Audi visits Minna Emir, bereaved families and survivor, promises no culpable personnel will be shielded
The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Abubakar Audi, has assured the public that the Corps will fully cooperate with the presidential investigation into the deaths of 37 artisanal miners in its custody in Niger State.
The NSCDC boss said the visit was to personally commiserate with the affected families and identify with them during their period of grief.
He assured the families that the Corps would not shield any personnel found culpable, stressing that justice, transparency and accountability would be prioritised throughout the investigation.
According to Audi, the Federal Government, acting on the directive of the Presidency, has constituted a high-powered investigative committee to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
He said the NSCDC was fully cooperating with the committee, adding that relevant personnel had been placed in protective custody to ensure their availability for questioning and a transparent investigation.
Audi also joined Muslim faithful in prayers for the repose of the souls of the deceased and prayed for strength and comfort for their bereaved families.
Responding on behalf of the traditional institution and the affected families, the Emir of Minna, Umar Farouk Bahago, thanked the Commandant General for his personal visit and the administrative steps taken by the Corps following the incident.
The Emir also commended the NSCDC for cooperating with the presidential investigative committee and identifying with the community at a time of grief.