Bago Orders Probe Into Deaths of 37 in NSCDC Custody, Promises Public Findings
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has ordered a thorough investigation into the deaths of 37 people in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna.
Bago made the commitment on Sunday during a three-day Fida’a prayer for the deceased at Tunga Central Mosque, Minna.
The governor said the probe would determine the actual causes of the deaths and establish the circumstances surrounding the detention of the victims.
He assured the families that the findings would be made public, stressing that the government would “probe deeply” to uncover what happened.
Bago disclosed that preliminary information indicated that some detainees were already in the facility before suspected illegal miners were brought in.
He said the investigation would identify those detained earlier, those arrested later, as well as the identities and ages of all the deceased.
The governor also announced plans to provide palliatives and other support to the families of the victims, while survivors receiving treatment in hospitals would also receive assistance.
He appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid further violence, adding that the curfew imposed following the unrest would be lifted after the prayer.
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The Chief Imam of Tunga Central Mosque, Sheikh Muhammad Salisu Isah Mai Dalalainu, prayed for the repose of the deceased and urged residents not to allow the incident to trigger further unrest.
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Samuel Agada is a writer and media contributor from Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. He is a graduate of Biochemistry from the University of Jos and a former banker with GTBank and FCMB. A prolific writer, songwriter, educator, and Gospel preacher, he is passionate about informing, inspiring, and impacting society through his work.