The Nigeria Union of Mine Workers (NUMW) has called for an immediate and transparent investigation into the reported deaths of 37 artisanal miners following their arrest and detention by personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.
The union, in a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Hamza Muhammad, on Sunday, expressed concern over what it described as the “suspicious deaths” of the miners and demanded justice for the deceased and their families.
NUMW said the affected miners were from communities in Shiroro and Munya Local Government Areas of Niger State.
While acknowledging the responsibility of the NSCDC to combat illegal mining, the union said enforcement operations must be conducted within the law and with respect for human life.
The union also expressed concern over the alleged conduct of the operation without the knowledge of the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and NUMW.
It called on the Federal Government and the Niger State Government to conduct a transparent investigation, ensure accountability for any officers found culpable and provide full compensation to the families of the deceased.
NUMW further demanded the release of remaining detainees and stronger coordination among government agencies involved in mining enforcement.
The union also called for the formalisation of artisanal mining activities rather than what it described as the criminalisation of artisanal miners.
In addition, NUMW demanded representation on the investigation panel, alongside representatives of its national headquarters and Niger State council, traditional rulers and youth leaders from Shiroro and Munya, as well as relatives of the deceased.
The union said an investigation conducted solely by the NSCDC would not be acceptable, stressing the need for an independent process that would command the confidence of affected communities.
“Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done by the people,” the statement said.
NUMW said it had directed its lawyers and Niger State council to compile the names of the deceased and called on the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and workers nationwide to support its demand for justice.
The union also declared three days of mourning for the deceased and postponed its National Delegate Conference, earlier scheduled for September 24, in honour of the miners.
NUMW extended condolences to the families of the deceased, affected communities and the people of Niger State, while calling for justice over the reported deaths.
