A newly deployed Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Commandant Abdul Hamid Salisu Kabara, has assumed duty in Niger State following the death of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Corps in Minna.
Kabara, who previously served as the Deputy Commandant in charge of Administration at the Niger State Command, was elevated to the rank of Commandant before his redeployment to the Corps Headquarters in Abuja.
His deployment to the Niger State Command was contained in a statement signed by the Command Public Relations Officer, DSC Abubakar Mohammed Rabiu Muti.
He succeeded Commandant Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, who was suspended alongside 21 other officers of the Command following the death of the 37 suspected illegal miners in custody.
The suspension of Aniviye was announced by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, following the deaths.
The assumption of office by Kabara comes at a particularly challenging period for the Niger State Command, following the deaths of persons arrested in connection with suspected illegal mining activities in the state.
Addressing the development, Kabara expressed deep sadness over the loss of lives and extended his heartfelt sympathy to the families of the deceased and all those affected by the unfortunate incident.
He stressed that while the Corps remains committed to its statutory responsibilities, including arrest, investigation, enforcement and the fight against illegal mining, the sanctity of human life must remain paramount.
“At a moment like this, beyond arrests, investigations, enforcement and the fight against illegal mining, we must remember one fundamental truth: every human life matters.
“The loss of any human life is painful, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families who are mourning at this difficult time,” he said.
The new Commandant noted that the responsibility of protecting society and enforcing the law must go hand in hand with the responsibility to uphold the dignity, safety and welfare of persons in custody.
He assured that the Command would continue to discharge its statutory responsibilities while giving due regard to the safety and welfare of persons under its custody.
Kabara prayed that Almighty Allah forgive the shortcomings of the deceased, grant them eternal rest and give their families, relatives and loved ones the strength, patience and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
