Death of 37 Miners in NSCDC Custody, Hon Abdullahi Idris Garba ( Mai Solar )Calls for Investigation and Calm in Niger State.
Yahaya Zakka.
A member of the House of Representatives representing Mariga/Wushishi/Mashegu/Kontagora Federal Constituency, Hon. Abdullahi Idris Garba (Mai-Solar), has called for an immediate, transparent, and independent investigation following the tragic death of 37 artisanal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) in Minna.
The lawmaker expressed deep shock, grief, and indignation over the incident, describing it as a monumental tragedy and a dark day for both Niger State and the nation at large.
In an official statement addressed to the Executive Governor of Niger State, His Excellency Farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago, Hon. Garba stated that no citizen deserves to die while held by security agencies tasked with protecting lives and property.
“This incident is heartbreaking, painful, and totally unacceptable,” Hon. Garba said. “I call on Your Excellency to, as a matter of urgency, intervene, ensure a full-scale, transparent, and independent investigation is conducted, and ensure that justice is not only done but seen to be done.
The lives of our people must count.”
Condolences and Calls for Reform
Extending his condolences to the bereaved families, colleagues, and affected communities across the state, the lawmaker acknowledged the vital economic roles the victims played as primary breadwinners for their households. He offered prayers for the repose of their souls (Aljannatul Firdaus) and for fortitude for the families left behind.
Beyond his appeal to state leadership, Hon. Garba urged the Federal Government, the Commandant General of the NSCDC, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), and relevant security agencies to act immediately to protect citizens and initiate comprehensive reforms in custodial operations across the country.
Amid escalating tensions and anger in parts of the state, the lawmaker passionately appealed to the youth and residents of Minna Metropolis, Kontagora, Mariga, Wushishi, and Mashegu to maintain peace and avoid taking the law into their own hands.
“I understand the provocation, anger, and frustration this sad news may cause, but I beg you in the name of Allah, do not take the law into your own hands,” he implored. “Let us allow the Government and the appropriate authorities to conduct thorough investigations and ensure justice prevails.”
Hon. Garba committed to leveraging all available legislative channels at the National Assembly to pursue full accountability and implement measures to prevent similar custodial tragedies in the future.
