By Abdullahi Inuwa
Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy and 2027 Gombe State governorship aspirant, Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, CON, has expressed deep sorrow over the reported death of about 37 young persons while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.
Pantami described the incident as a “heartrending” tragedy, calling for a thorough, transparent and credible investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and determine their actual cause.
He stressed that every individual held in government custody is entitled to dignity, humane treatment and protection of fundamental rights, regardless of the allegations against them.
According to the 2027 Gombe governorship aspirant, ongoing investigations and forensic examinations must be allowed to run their full course without interference, while anyone found to have acted negligently, unlawfully or in violation of established procedures should face appropriate administrative or criminal consequences under the law.
Pantami also used the incident to draw attention to the wider challenge of illegal mining, which he said exposes the environment, national security, public revenue and the lives of those involved to serious risks.
He urged government to strengthen the regulation and monitoring of mining activities, enforce existing laws and ensure that mining operations are conducted safely and responsibly.
However, Pantami maintained that enforcement alone would not provide a lasting solution, noting that limited access to decent jobs, skills, entrepreneurship opportunities and sustainable livelihoods can push young Nigerians towards risky and illegal activities.
He therefore advocated a broader approach combining effective regulation with increased investment in skills acquisition, vocational and technical education, technology, entrepreneurship and legitimate employment opportunities for young people.
The former minister further insisted that the Niger State incident must not be allowed to disappear without accountability.
He called for the investigation to be conducted independently and transparently, stressing that the families of the deceased deserve answers and justice.
“The families of the deceased deserve answers, justice and accountability. The people of Niger State, and Nigerians generally, deserve the assurance that lessons will be learned and that such a tragedy will not be allowed to happen again,” Pantami said.
He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families, relatives and communities of the deceased, as well as the Niger State Government.
“May Almighty Allah grant them eternal rest and give their loved ones the strength to bear this painful loss,” he added.
Pantami, a former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, is among politicians whose names have emerged in the political conversation ahead of the 2027 Gombe State governorship election.
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