Former military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, and former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, have called for thorough and extensive investigations into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.

While Babangida described the deaths as tragic and deeply disturbing, Abdulsalami called for an in-depth investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and ensure that measures are taken to prevent a recurrence.

The two former Nigerian leaders also commiserated with the families of the deceased and appealed for calm as investigations into the incident continue.

Babangida, in a statement issued on his behalf by Dr Danladi Umar Abdulhameed, expressed condolences to the parents and families of the deceased, as well as the government and people of Niger State.

He commended the Niger State Government for its response to the incident, particularly its decision to constitute a committee of inquiry and commence medical and forensic examinations to establish the circumstances and actual causes of the deaths.

“The steps being taken by the authorities are necessary to establish the facts surrounding the deaths and ensure that appropriate action is taken based on the findings,” Babangida said.

The former military president urged residents of the state, particularly the youths and families of the deceased, to remain calm and allow the investigation to run its course appealing to all parties to avoid actions capable of escalating tensions or disrupting peace and security in the state, stressing the importance of establishing the truth surrounding the incident.

Babangida expressed hope that the investigation would be conducted transparently and provide answers to the bereaved families and residents of Niger State.

Abdulsalami, in a separate statement, described the deaths of the 37 young people as a painful loss to their families, communities, Niger State and Nigeria while extending his condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for strength for those affected by the tragedy.

The former Head of State called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths, saying the authorities must establish the facts and take appropriate measures to prevent a recurrence.

He also urged relevant government agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen safety measures at mining sites, particularly to protect young people whose livelihoods depend on mining and other economic activities appealing for calm among the affected communities and called on the authorities to provide necessary support to the victims’ families.

The deaths followed enforcement operations by the NSCDC at mining sites in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State on September 15 and 16, during which scores of suspected illegal miners were arrested. (The Nation)