The Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN) has demanded a full account of the deaths of 37 miners arrested during anti-illegal mining operation in Niger State.
In a statement issued by the association on Saturday, signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Engr. Fatai Jimoh Kolawole, the association expressed shock over the deaths and condoled with the families of the deceased, Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and the people of the state.
It said it does not support illegal mining, acknowledging that the practice damages the environment, deprives the country of revenue and puts licensed operators at risk.
However, MAN said suspects should not be treated as convicts and questioned how an enforcement operation could result in the deaths of dozens of detainees within days.
The association called for a comprehensive account of the arrests and deaths, including who was arrested and why, where and how long they were detained, the medical attention they received and the specific causes of death.
It also demanded the publication of autopsy and forensic findings, while urging authorities to keep the families of the deceased informed throughout the investigation.
MAN further called for accountability if any officer or government agency is found to have failed in its duty.
On the broader fight against illegal mining, the association urged authorities to focus enforcement efforts on financiers, equipment suppliers and mineral buyers rather than concentrating solely on workers at mining sites.
It also advocated easier access to mining licences and training in safe mining practices, saying these measures could help bring more small-scale miners into the formal sector.
The association proposed a standard enforcement protocol involving security agencies, regulators and industry stakeholders to guide the screening, detention and care of suspects during mining operations.
MAN appealed for calm while investigations continue and said it was ready to assist any panel seeking the industry’s input.
