News Investigators/ Hadiza Kuta, Niger Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, has called for the protection of the rights, dignity and welfare of persons in custody in accordance with the law.
Mrs Kuta made the call while expressing condolences over the death of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
This is contained in a statement by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Hadiza Shiru, issued to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Minna.
The commissioner condoled with Gov. Umaru Bago, the bereaved families and the people of the state over the incident, describing the deaths as deeply painful and unfortunate.
Mrs Kuta urged residents to remain calm and allow the ongoing independent investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
According to Mrs Kuta, every human life is precious, saying that persons in custody are entitled to humane treatment and protection of their fundamental rights.
She expressed hope that the investigation would be thorough, transparent and conclusive to establish the facts surrounding the incident and provide clarity on the circumstances that led to the deaths.
The commissioner also prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive the deceased and grant them Aljannah Firdaus, while giving their families the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
Mrs Kuta urged the people of Niger to remain peaceful and united, particularly at a time when the incident had generated concern among residents.
She assured the people of the state of the ministry’s continued commitment to the protection and welfare of women, children, vulnerable persons and other citizens.
The commissioner reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting efforts that promote peace, social protection, safety, dignity and the overall wellbeing of citizens across the state.
NAN
