Shettima Assures Bereaved Families of Justice, Says Investigation Will Establish Circumstances Surrounding Deaths.
Enugu Media Village (EMV), the Most Updated Online News Platform — October 6, 2026
The Federal Government has announced a ₦250 million support package for the families of the 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.
Vice President Kashim Shettima announced the intervention on Monday during a condolence visit to Governor Umaru Bago, the people of Niger State and the bereaved families. He conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s condolences and assured the families that the Federal Government would pursue answers over the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Shettima stressed that every citizen remains entitled to the protection of the state while in custody, regardless of allegations against them. He said the Federal Government would ensure that the circumstances surrounding the deaths are thoroughly investigated and that anyone found culpable would be held accountable through due process.
The Vice President also urged Nigerians not to politicise the tragedy, calling for calm and allowing the ongoing investigation to establish the facts.
The Federal Government has constituted an independent investigative committee to examine the incident, while officers connected with the matter have reportedly been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation. The exact cause of the deaths remains subject to the ongoing probe.
Meanwhile, the Niger State Government has also provided financial assistance to affected families and survivors, with reports indicating that families of the deceased received ₦5 million each, while survivors received ₦2 million each.
The Federal Government’s intervention comes amid continued calls for accountability, improved protection of persons in custody and stronger regulation of mining activities across the country.
Enugu Media Village (EMV) will continue to monitor developments from the investigation and bring verified updates to its readers.
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