THE Federal Government has announced a N250million support package for families of the 37 alleged illegal miners who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.

    Vice President, Kashim Shettima, who disclosed this during a condolence visit to the government and people of the state over the deaths, described the incident as unfortunate, saying the Federal Government shares in the pain of the bereaved families and remains committed to protecting every Nigerian.

    Shettima said the death of the 37 young men was a matter of national concern and no allegation should diminish that entitlement, assuring that those responsible will be held accountable through due process.

    While commiserating with the affected families, the vice president stated that the Federal Government owed them justice and answers over the circumstances surrounding the deaths, commending Governor Umaru Bago for his efforts in seeking justice for the victims.

    He, however, urged the people not to politicise the tragedy or demonise the governor, but to remain fair to one another at a time of mourning.

    In his response, Bago thanked Shettima for the visit, which he described as a demonstration of compassion and national solidarity with the people of the state.

    Bago said the state government’s demand for justice was not an act of vengeance, but a moral responsibility to ensure that citizens do not lose their lives in the hands of those entrusted with their protection.

    He assured the Federal Government of the state’s cooperation with the investigative team constituted to unravel the circumstances surrounding the deaths, saying the people deserve answers and the families deserve justice.

    The governor also pledged the state’s support for Federal Government efforts to regulate mining activities and protect national assets, even as he called for greater investment in safe, legal and dignified economic opportunities for young Nigerians.