Tinubu gave the directive while ordering a full, transparent, and unhindered investigation into the incident, saying administrative sanctions must not replace criminal proceedings where evidence establishes culpability.
The suspected illegal miners were arrested during enforcement operations around the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis of Minna on September 15 and 16. Reports have put the number of deaths at between 33 and 40, while the NSCDC has yet to establish a final figure.
In a statement issued on Friday, the President said no Nigerian should die in government custody as a result of negligence, abuse, inhumane treatment or dereliction of duty.
He said the investigation must establish the circumstances of the arrests, the condition of the detainees when they were taken into custody, their detention conditions, the number of people held at the facility, the medical attention provided and the events leading to the deaths.
“While the Federal Government would continue to combat illegal mining and other criminal activities across the country, enforcement operations must be conducted strictly within the law and with full respect for the dignity and fundamental rights of every person in custody.
“The fact that these individuals were suspected of illegal mining does not in any way remove their right to life, dignity and humane treatment while in government custody.
“Government will not tolerate mass deaths arising from official negligence, dereliction of duty or failure by public officials to protect the lives placed under their care,” he said.
Tinubu directed the Ministry of Interior and the NSCDC leadership to cooperate fully with the investigation and ensure that no officer interfered with the process.
“The suspension of officers is only an administrative step and must not substitute for a proper determination of criminal responsibility where the evidence warrants prosecution,” the President said.
He further directed that any official whose actions, abuse, or negligence contributed to the deaths should be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“There must be accountability,” he said.
The NSCDC had earlier constituted a high-powered investigative team to examine the deaths, including the condition of the detainees upon arrest, their period in custody, detention conditions and medical attention provided. The Corps also said the cause of death had not been established and that reports linking the deaths to a specific disease were subject to medical and laboratory confirmation.
Tinubu extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and appealed for calm, assuring them that the government would pursue the truth and act on credible evidence.
“We must never allow the pursuit of one form of illegality to create another. The government must enforce the law firmly, but it must also obey the law. The sanctity of human life is non-negotiable,” he said.
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