The Christian Association of Nigeria CAN, Niger State chapter, has condemned the deaths of 37 artisanal miners who reportedly died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps NSCDC.
The state CAN Chairman, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, described the incident as tragic and unacceptable, calling on the government to constitute independent committees of inquiry to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Yohanna, who is also the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, expressed condolences to Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, the people of the state and, particularly, the families of the deceased.
In a statement, the cleric urged the relatives of the victims and residents of the state to remain calm and law-abiding while relevant authorities investigate the incident and determine the circumstances that led to the deaths.
He also called for a thorough investigation to ensure that the facts surrounding the incident are established.
Yohanna prayed that God would grant the deceased eternal rest and comfort their families during the difficult period.
