NSCDC Orders Probe As Niger Commandant, Key Officers Step Aside Over Miners’ Deaths

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has ordered a full scale investigation into the deaths of illegal miners while in the custody of its Niger State Command.

The directive followed an order by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, to the NSCDC Commandant General, Prof Ahmed Abubakar Audi, to conduct a transparent and unhindered investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

In compliance with the directive, Audi ordered the Niger State Commandant to immediately step aside and report to the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja to appear before the panel of inquiry.

The State Commandant’s Heads of Operations, Mining, Legal, Intelligence and Investigation were also directed to report to the panel as part of the investigation into the incident.

The NSCDC Commandant General has meanwhile deployed a new Commandant to Niger State to take immediate charge of the command.

The Corps said the investigation would determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths and assured the Minister that no stone would be left unturned in establishing what transpired.

It added that any officer or personnel found to have acted contrary to the law, established procedures or professional standards would face appropriate administrative or disciplinary action and, where applicable, criminal sanctions in accordance with extant laws and regulations.

The NSCDC said it remained committed to protecting the dignity, safety and fundamental rights of persons in its custody.

The Corps also reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing its statutory mandate, including combating illegal mining and protecting Nigeria’s critical national assets, within the provisions of the law and established professional standards.