Obi’s Camp Tackles Alake Over 37 Deaths in Niger
* Says Solid Minerals minister should explain tragedy before attacking Obi Sunday Aborisade in Abuja The Peter Obi Media Office has faulted the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake,
The Peter Obi Media Office has rebuked Nigeria's Solid Minerals Minister, Dele Alake, for diverting attention from a tragedy in Niger State by criticizing the former governor, Peter Obi. The tragedy involved the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners held by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State. The media office described Alake's comments as a distraction from the need for answers about the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Instead of focusing on political exchanges, the media office urged Alake to provide answers to questions regarding the deaths, including who authorized the operation, what safeguards were in place, and who will be held accountable. The deaths occurred during operations targeting alleged illegal mining in Niger State on September 15 and 16.
The Federal Government has established a 10-member committee to investigate the incident, and police authorities have launched their own investigation. The cause of death remains under investigation, with initial reports suggesting a possible disease outbreak or suffocation due to overcrowding and poor ventilation. The Obi Media Office emphasized that the tragedy should prompt the government to prioritize accountability and reforms in the solid minerals sector, rather than engaging in political posturing.
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