NSCDC CG condoles Minna Emir, families of 37 miners

…assures cooperation with probe pane

The Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has visited the Emir of Minna, Alhaji (Dr.) Umar Farouk Bahago, and families affected by the deaths of 37 miners in Niger State.

Audi also visited the family of the survivor of the incident, where he expressed condolences and assured the affected families of the Corps’ commitment to justice and transparency.

The NSCDC Public Relations Officer, Mr. Babawale Afolabi, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday.

The NSCDC boss said the Corps would not shield any personnel found culpable in the incident, stressing that anyone found to have acted wrongfully would be held accountable.

He said the Federal Government, following a directive from the Presidency, had constituted a high-powered investigative committee to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Audi assured that the NSCDC would provide the committee with full cooperation to enable it conduct a transparent investigation.

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He disclosed that relevant personnel had already been placed in protective custody to ensure their availability to the investigative panel and facilitate the investigation process.

The Commandant-General said his visit was also intended to identify with the community and bereaved families during the period of mourning, noting the significance of the third and seventh-day prayers for the departed in the Muslim faith.

He joined the Muslim faithful in praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased and for strength for their families.

Responding on behalf of the traditional institution and the affected families, the Emir of Minna appreciated the Commandant-General for personally visiting the community and identifying with them in their moment of grief.

He also commended the NSCDC leadership for the administrative measures taken so far and its willingness to cooperate with the presidential investigative committee.