By Awwal Umar Kontagora The Nigeria Union of Mine Workers (NUMW), Niger State branch, has called on the Niger State Government a...
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
The Nigeria Union of Mine Workers (NUMW), Niger State branch, has called on the Niger State Government and relevant security agencies to include the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in the commission of inquiry set up to investigate the deaths of 37 people allegedly in the custody of officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The call was made by the Head of NUMW, Niger State branch, Comrade Musa Adamu Nasko, while expressing condolences to the Niger State Government, the bereaved families and relatives of those who lost their lives in the incident.
Nasko said seven of the deceased were members of the group, while three others survived the incident and were from Shiroro Local Government Area.
According to him, preliminary information surrounding the incident indicated that more than 60 people were allegedly kept in a single room, resulting in overcrowding and severe heat.
He alleged that the detainees complained about the heat and unpleasant smell in the room, after which something described as being similar to perfume was sprayed inside. He further alleged that the situation subsequently became worse, with some detainees experiencing severe thirst and resorting to drinking their own urine before some of them eventually died.
Nasko also alleged that the detainees were kept beyond the period prescribed by law for the investigation of suspects before they are brought before a court.
He further accused the NSCDC of returning to mining-related activities and alleged that its officers were collecting bail payments from those arrested, with some of the amounts allegedly being below ₦50,000.
The NUMW official claimed that similar incidents had occurred in areas including Elegi, Gada, Garafuni and Mai-Wayau, alleging that the union had previously raised concerns with relevant authorities without receiving adequate response.
He also addressed reports concerning the ages of some of those who died, saying that although it had been stated that some of the deceased were minors and therefore should not have been subjected to certain legal procedures, the union does not register children because it is affiliated with the International Labour Organization, which promotes the protection of children's rights.
Nasko acknowledged the dangers associated with mining activities but attributed the continued involvement of people in the sector to economic hardship, saying many households were struggling to meet their basic needs.
He therefore called for the inclusion of the NLC in all committees investigating the incident, saying the participation of organised labour would help ensure a transparent and fair investigation.
“NUMW is calling with a loud voice to ensure that the investigation is completed in time and that damages and compensation are paid to the families of those who lost their lives,” he said.
He added that the union was prepared to take all necessary steps, including pursuing legal avenues, if it was established that the activities of the NSCDC in the mining sector contravened existing laws.
The NUMW also commended the Niger State Government under the leadership of Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago for its concern and follow-up on the matter. The union equally acknowledged assurances from the Nigeria Police Force and the leadership of the NSCDC that the incident would be investigated.
Nasko urged all security agencies involved in the investigation to ensure a fair and transparent process, appropriate compensation for the victims' families and the prosecution of anyone found culpable in accordance with the law.
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