The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has suspended three more personnel and directed that flags be flown at half-mast for three days in honour of the suspected illegal miners who died in its custody in Niger State.
The Corps’ spokesperson, Babawale Afolabi, announced the decision in Abuja on Sunday.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), 21 officers and men were earlier suspended and summoned to the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja after at least 30 suspected illegal miners died.
Afolabi said the Commandant General, Ahmed Audi, issued the directive as a show of institutional remorse, grief and firm disapproval of the incident.
Audi said the move was meant to signal collective mourning and the Corps’ resolve to rid its ranks of bad elements.
He added that all arrested personnel would be handed over to the Presidential Independent Investigation Committee and other investigative panels for further investigation and possible prosecution.
NAN also reported that the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, had set up a 10-member independent committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The Commandant General said the Corps was founded on integrity, professionalism, discipline and respect for the rule of law.
“We do not condone unprofessional conduct, high-handedness or any action that undermines the fundamental rights of citizens or the sacred trust reposed in us,” he said.
He promised that the Corps would keep the public informed about the outcome of the investigations.
“The leadership of the NSCDC will continue to show unwavering commitment to transparency, human rights protection and professional ethics,” he added.
Audi also thanked Nigerians for their patience and understanding while the Corps carries out an internal review.
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