The Federal Government panel set up to probe the death 37 miners in Niger state is seeking two weeks extension from 7th October to 21st October to submit its report.
Speaking at a Press Conference on Tuesday, Chairman, FG Independent Investigation Committee into Reported Deaths of 37 Persons in NSCDC Custody in Minna, Niger State,Jonathan Kure, disclosed that the extension has become necessary to enable the committee do a thorough job.
Part of his speech reads below:
“Recall that on inauguration, our committee was mandated to submit its report within two weeks.
The Committee acknowledges the cooperation so far received from the Federal Ministry of Interior, the Nigerian Security Civil Defence Corp (NSCDC), the Niger State Government, Minna Emirate, members of the affected communities, survivors, and reports that appreciable progress has been recorded, including inspection of the custody facility; conduct of autopsies; taking of witness statements from Nigerian Security Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) personnel, survivors, families and other witnesses; and the collection of documentary and forensic evidence.
“However, the Committee is yet to conclude its assignment on account of the following:
(a) The large volume of testimony and documentary evidence requiring meticulous review and collation;
(b) pending forensic and pathology reports essential to establishing the cause of death; and
(c) the need to afford all persons implicated-including the officers already suspended- a fair opportunity to respond, so that the Committee’s findings and recommendations will withstand scrutiny and command public confidence.
In the circumstance, the Committee has requested an extension of time of two (2) weeks, that is, from the initial submission date of 7th October to 21st October 2026, to enable it conclude its investigation and submit a thorough and credible final report.”
However,the Chairman highlighted some of the things discovered while carrying out their investigation so far.
“There are elements of institutional breakdown,elements of over zealousness.
Some elements that will require more training for personnel.”Kure said.
