By: Adelowo Oladipo, Minna
A 20 Member Committee of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths of 37(thirty seven) artisanal miners while being detained in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Niger State Command has been inaugurated by the state government.
Inaugurating the committee at Government House, Minna, headed by the Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba, State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, charged members of the committee to carry out the assignment with diligence, professionalism and thoroughness in oder to establish the facts surrounding the ugly incident which has attracted public attention.
The Governor also urged members of the committee to conduct a comprehensive investigation and ensure that all relevant facts are established noting that the process must be transparent, credible and guided by the principles of fairness and justice.
Umar Bago further directed the committee to expedite its assignment and visit all relevant locations connected to the incident so as to enable members obtain first hand information necessary for their investigation.
He also tasked the committee to invite and obtain testimonies from key witnesses, survivors, families of the deceased, relevant government agencies, stakeholders and other persons who may possess useful information capable of assisting in establishing the facts surrounding the unfortunate incident.
He called on members of the public to cooperate fully with the committee by providing necessary information and materials that may assist the committee in carrying out its mandate effectively.
Responding on behalf of the members of the Committee, Niger state Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba who is also the chairman of the committee promised to carry out the mandate given to him diligently without fear or favour.
The committee members comprises representatives of relevant security agencies, government institutions, key stakeholders and groups.
