APC Donates N52m to Families of 37 Miners Who Died in Niger NSCDC Custody

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has donated N52 million to survivors and families of the 37 miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.

Niger State Governor Umaru Bago disclosed the donation on Tuesday when he received the APC National Working Committee, led by National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, during a condolence visit to the state.

Bago thanked the party leadership for visiting the state and providing financial support to those affected by the incident.

He said a state committee led by his deputy, Yakubu Garba, would work with the Emir of Minna, Alhaji Farouk Umar-Bahago, to ensure the funds reach the intended beneficiaries.

The 37 suspected illegal miners died in NSCDC custody on September 17 after being arrested during anti-illegal mining operations in Niger State. The circumstances surrounding their deaths remain under investigation. The Federal Government has constituted a 10-member independent committee to establish what happened and determine responsibility where necessary.

Yilwatda expressed the APC’s condolences to the Niger State Government, the affected families and residents, describing the incident as a difficult period for the state.

“This is not a good moment for the country, especially Niger State,” he said, noting that the state had recently faced several security challenges.

“For the affected families, may God strengthen and comfort them in this challenging period. All this will pass away,” Yilwatda added.

The APC chairman also praised Governor Bago’s response to the incident and assured him of the party’s continued support for his administration.

Yilwatda later led members of the NWC to the palace of the Emir of Minna for another condolence visit as investigations into the deaths continue.