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From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja
The Commandant General (CG) of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has paid a condolence visit to the Emir of Minna, Alhaji Umar Farouk Bahago, the parents of the deceased and the family of the survivors.
In a statement, Assistant Commandant of Corps and National Public Relations Officer of NSCDC, National Headquarters, Abuja, Babawale Afolabi, said that the visit was aimed at commiserating directly with the affected families during their period of grief.
According to him, during the interaction, the CG condoled with the families and gave a firm assurance that the corps would not shield anyone found culpable, emphasising that justice and transparency would take precedence.
Addressing the broader steps being taken to uncover the truth, the CG noted that the Federal Government, under the directive of the presidency, had constituted a high-powered investigative committee to probe the incident. He assured the public that the NSCDC was fully cooperating with the panel, noting that relevant personnel had already been placed in protective custody to make them fully available for transparent interrogation and the judicial process.
Highlighting the cultural and spiritual significance of the third and seventh-day prayers for the departed, the CG explained that his visit was also to join the Muslim faithfuls in offering prayers for the repose of the souls of the deceased and strength for the bereaved families.
Responding on behalf of the traditional institution and the families, the Emir expressed appreciation to the CG for the swift administrative actions taken, for co-operating with the presidential committee and for deeming it fit to personally visit and identify with the community in their moment of grief.
On Thursday, September 17, about 37 persons held by NSCDC, Niger State Command, on suspicion of illegal mining, died in custody, prompting a nationwide outrage.
