FJF backs NSCDC probe into Niger miners’ deaths, cautions towards protest

The Freelance Journalist Federation (FJF) has expressed confidence within the committee investigating the reported deaths of 37 miners in Niger State, urging the general public to permit the panel to conclude its task with out undue strain.

The federation’s place adopted threats by the Nigeria Diaspora Organizations and Community for Human Rights (NDOCHR) to stage a protest on the headquarters of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Abuja over alleged delays in releasing the investigation’s findings.

FJF in an announcement issued on Friday and collectively signed by FJF conveners Ibrahim Ali, Jonathan Modi, Okpara Isaac and Christopher Abah, described the investigative course of as clear and thorough, insisting that ample time ought to be allowed for the committee to finish its work and set up the details surrounding the incident.

The federation criticised the proposed demonstration, describing it as pointless and politically motivated, whereas warning towards actions that would heighten tensions over a problem involving the lack of human lives.

It additionally counseled the management of the NSCDC, the Minister of Interior and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it described as their dedication to transparency, accountability and the rule of legislation.

According to the FJF, native civil society organisations monitoring the proceedings have expressed satisfaction with the panel’s conduct. However, the federation maintained that the investigation ought to be allowed to run its course earlier than conclusions are drawn.

The group additionally rejected calls by the diaspora organisation for the rapid removing and prosecution of the NSCDC Commandant-General, Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi, describing the calls for as untimely and inconsistent with the precept of truthful listening to.

It argued that requires sanctions earlier than the conclusion of the investigation might undermine due course of and prejudice public notion of the committee’s work.

The NDOCHR had additionally threatened to petition the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague over the matter. In response, the FJF maintained that Nigeria’s home authorized and investigative establishments ought to be allowed to handle the allegations by established procedures.

The federation urged Nigerians within the diaspora to train restraint and keep away from actions that would inflame political tensions or intervene with the continued investigation.

It urged members of the general public to stay calm and await the committee’s official findings, stressing {that a} thorough investigation was essential to determine the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths and decide any duty arising from the incident.

The committee’s remaining findings and any subsequent official actions are anticipated to be central to resolving the issues surrounding the incident.

The assertion additional referred to as on the Inspector-General of Police and different safety businesses to take applicable steps to take care of public order within the Federal Capital Territory.