Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has suspended his party’s upcoming campaign flag-off and declared a three-day period of mourning following the deaths of 37 suspected artisanal miners in security custody.
The victims died while detained at a facility operated by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, following security operations targeting illegal mining activities.
Addressing journalists in Minna on Thursday, Governor Bago announced the immediate suspension of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign rally originally scheduled for Saturday. He also established a multi-agency committee of inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The state government has ordered forensic examinations and autopsies to determine the exact cause of death. While state command leadership has faced swift administrative action, the federal government similarly announced the suspension of the Niger State NSCDC commandant to pave the way for an independent investigation.
Governor Bago extended his condolences to the bereaved families, urging residents to remain calm while authorities look into the incident.