By: Adelowo Oladipo, Minna
The Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has presented cheques of five million naira each to the families of the deceased Artisanal Miners who died last month while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Niger State Command Headquarters in Minna.
Governor Umaru Bago also presented two million naira each to the survivors of the tragic incident.
Speaking at the event, Governor Bago said the financial support was intended to provide some sucour /relief to the affected families and survivors, noting that the money could not replace the lives lost.
The governor expressed appreciation to the families of the deceased and the relations of the survivors for their patience and perseverance during the difficult period.
He also commended the Emir of Minna, HRM Alhaji Umar Faruk Bahago, for his continued support and counsel to the government, the affected families and the community.
Governor Bago said investigations into the incident were still ongoing, adding that additional people had come forward claiming to have been involved in the incident.
He said the committees set up, by him and headed by the Deputy Governor,Comrade Yakubu Garba and the Minna,HRM Alhaji (Dr) Umaru Faruk Bahago;of Minna Emirate would continue to verify the claims.
Bago also said there had been additional deaths linked to the incident, including one reportedly caused by a gunshot at the NSCDC’s facility, while two survivors were initially recorded at the facility also.
He urged people to desist from unsafe and unprofessional mining activities and encouraged the affected bereaved families to use the support to rebuild their lives and return their children to school.
The governor further announced plans to provide a learning facility around the affected area, with teachers to be deployed to enable children in the community to have access to education.
Responding, the Emir of Minna, HRM Alhaji Umar Faruk Bahago, appreciated the Niger State Government for the gesture.
The Emir prayed for the repose of the souls of those who died and assured the government that he would distribute the cheques to the families of the victims.
He also offered prayers for the state, the survivors and the families of the deceased persons.
