***As Audi suspends Niger State NSCDC Commandant

The Federal Government has ordered a full-scale, transparent, and unhindered investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of suspected illegal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.

Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo issued the directive to the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Professor Ahmed Audi, Thursday in Abuja.

Following the explicit directive issued by the Minister, the NSCDC CG has immediately suspended the Niger State Commandant.

A statement released by the NSCDC National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commandant of Corps Babawale Afolabi, noted that Audi instructed the suspended state commandant to step aside with immediate effect and report forthwith to the National Headquarters of the service in Abuja.

The embattled commandant is expected to appear before a specially constituted panel of inquiry.

He will be joined by other key personnel from the state command, specifically the Heads of Operations, Mining, Legal, Intelligence, and Investigation, who have also been summoned to face the investigative panel, the statement adds.

To ensure uninterrupted administration and operational continuity, the NSCDC boss has also directed a newly appointed commandant to proceed to Niger state and assume immediate command of the state formation.

According to the statement, this swift administrative action was taken in direct compliance with the minister’s mandate to ensure absolute transparency in uncovering the events that led to the tragic detention incident.

The NSCDC is assuring the Federal Government and the general public of a thorough probe.

Audi noted that stringent measures would be applied to any personnel found culpable during the investigative process.

“The CG assures the Honourable Minister of Interior that no stone would be left unturned in the investigation process and any officer or personnel found to have acted contrary to the law, established procedures or professional standards will face appropriate administrative, disciplinary and, where applicable, criminal sanctions in accordance with extant laws and regulations,” the statement read.

The paramilitary agency further reiterated its unwavering dedication to safeguarding human rights and ensuring operational accountability, even as it continues to actively execute its core mandates across the country.

The CG said that “The NSCDC remains committed to upholding the dignity, safety and fundamental rights of every person in its custody and will continue to ensure that the enforcement of its statutory mandate, including the fight against illegal mining and the protection of Nigeria’s critical national assets, is carried out in accordance with the law and established professional standards.”