RismadarVoice Reporters
September 19, 2026
The Niger State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria has condemned the deaths of 37 artisanal miners who reportedly died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
The state CAN Chairman, Most Rev. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, described the incident as tragic and unacceptable and called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Yohanna, who is also the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, urged the government to constitute independent committees of inquiry to establish what led to the deaths.
In a statement, the cleric expressed condolences to Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, the people of the state and, particularly, the families of those who died.
He appealed to the relatives of the victims and residents of the state to remain calm and law-abiding while authorities investigate the incident.
Yohanna said a transparent investigation was necessary to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and ensure that appropriate action was taken based on the findings.
He also prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and comfort for their families.
