By Mary Izuaka

 

The federal government has donated N250 million to the families of 37 suspected illegal miners who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.

Vice President Kashim Shettima announced the donation on Monday during a condolence visit to Minna, the Niger State capital.

The 37 suspects were arrested during enforcement operations against illegal mining in the state and were later found dead in the early hours of 17 September following what the NSCDC described as a suspected outbreak of disease.

The incident sparked public outrage and prompted the federal government to suspend the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Aniviye.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, ordered Mr Aniviye’s immediate suspension and directed a full investigation into the incident.

On Monday, Mr Shettima, in a statement posted on his Facebook page, said he conveyed the sympathies of President Bola Tinubu to Governor Mohammed Bago, the bereaved families and the people of the state over the tragedy.

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“Today, I paid a condolence visit to Minna, the Niger State capital, where I conveyed the sympathies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, the bereaved families, and the people of the state over the death of 37 suspected miners,” Mr Shettima said.

He assured the families that the federal government will get to the root of the tragedy and ensure that anyone found culpable is held accountable.

“In my remarks, I assured the families of the 37 suspected miners who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State that the Federal Government will get to the root of the tragedy and ensure that anyone found culpable is held accountable,” he added.

“I also announced the federal government’s donation of ₦250 million to the families of the deceased,” Mr Shettima said.