ABUJA — Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has ordered the deployment of a high-powered ministerial team to Niger State to investigate the deaths of detained persons in Minna over allegations linked to illegal mining.
Alake, who expressed shock and sadness over the incident, also condoled with Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, and the families and communities affected by the tragedy.
The minister said the team would work with other investigators to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and submit a comprehensive report.
“Given the allegation that the detained persons were arrested on suspicion of carrying out illegal mining, I have deployed a high-powered team of officials to Niger State to investigate the circumstances and ascertain the facts of the matter,” Alake said.
He commended Governor Bago for declaring a period of mourning and setting up an investigative framework to uncover what transpired.
According to Alake, a thorough, transparent and independent inquiry is necessary to establish accountability and ensure that a similar incident does not occur again in detention and correctional facilities.
He said the loss of lives was deeply painful, adding that his thoughts and prayers were with the bereaved families and communities mourning the victims.
Alake prayed for comfort for the affected families and eternal rest for the deceased.
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