37 miners’ death: I’m just chief security officer by mouth – Gov Bago

Niger State Governor Umar Bago has revealed his limited authority over security agencies in the state, despite his role as the chief security officer. Speaking to Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Bago emphasized that security bodies like the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), police, and other federal entities do not directly report to him.

He highlighted that these organizations report to central authorities, which restricts his ability to exert control over their activities, particularly concerning detention centers, police stations, and civil defense stations. Bago clarified that the state government only steps in when civil society organizations or citizens raise concerns, but such interventions are rare.

The governor’s remarks come amidst a growing concern over the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the NSCDC, prompting questions about the roles and responsibilities of both state and federal authorities in preventing such incidents and addressing security issues associated with mining in Niger State.