The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has appointed Abdulhamid Kabara as the new commandant of its Niger State Command, following the suspension of the former commandant over circumstances surrounding the death of 37 miners arrested by the law enforcement agency in the state.
Kabara’s deployment was to prevent any vacuum in leadership of the Command, pending outcome of the Federal Government investigations to ascertain circumstances that allegedly resulted in the death of the Miners in the state.
NSCDC spokesperson in Niger, Abubakar Muti, who announced this thrpugh a statement made available to newsmen on Saturday, stated that Kabara assumed office and took over the command yesterday.
Muti said Kabara’s arrival came at a sensitive time for the command, given the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Meanwhile, Kabara on Saturday expressed sympathy to the families of the deceased and others affected by the incident.
He said the loss of life was painful and required the command to place greater emphasis on the welfare of people in its custody.
“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,” Kabara said.
The new commandant also said the NSCDC would continue to carry out its statutory duties, including enforcement and investigations, while ensuring that those under its custody are treated with dignity and kept safe.
He stressed that protecting society and enforcing the law should be matched by responsibility for the safety and welfare of persons in custody.