NSCDC Reaffirms Commitment To Transparency, Accountability And Due Process

The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, has reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to transparency, accountability and due process as an Independent Committee begins its assignment to establish the facts and circumstances surrounding the reported deaths of 33 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the NSCDC Niger State Command in Minna.

The Commandant General joined the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and other senior officials of the Ministry and its agencies at the inauguration of the 10-member panel, chaired by Mr Jonathan Kure, a retired Deputy Director-General of the Department of State Services.

Comprising professionals of proven integrity and diverse expertise, the panel has been mandated to independently examine the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths and make appropriate recommendations.

Inaugurating the panel, the Honourable Minister charged its members to discharge their responsibilities with professionalism, impartiality and integrity, with particular emphasis on establishing the facts and providing credible answers to the bereaved families and the Nigerian public.

Responding on behalf of the members, Mr Kure expressed sympathy with the families of the deceased and assured that they would approach the assignment with diligence, objectivity and a strong sense of responsibility to the nation.

The NSCDC welcomes the independent process and will provide full access to relevant records, information and personnel necessary for the effective discharge of the mandate. The Corps remains confident that a thorough and credible examination will bring clarity to the circumstances surrounding the incident and inform any necessary action.

The Corps is deeply mindful of the pain and loss suffered by the bereaved families and extends its heartfelt condolences to them. The NSCDC reiterates that respect for human dignity, accountability and strict adherence to the law remain integral to its mandate and custodial responsibilities.