Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has issued a strong warning over the investigation into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners.
The minister warned that anyone who interferes with the probe will face serious legal consequences.
He gave the warning in Abuja while inaugurating a 10-member independent committee to investigate the deaths.
The victims reportedly died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
Tunji-Ojo directed the NSCDC leadership to fully cooperate with the investigative committee.
He also ordered officers linked to the incident to provide all relevant records. The minister said material evidence connected to the deaths must be preserved.
He warned against any attempt to hide information or interfere with witnesses.
“All records and material evidence connected to this incident, I have directed that they must be preserved and made available. Let me sound a very strong note of warning: any attempt by anybody to destroy or conceal evidence, intimidate witnesses or obstruct this investigation will be treated as a serious offence against the nation and it will not be tolerated.
“If it ever happens, I give you my word, the full hammer of the law will descend on such an individual,” he said.
The warning came as the committee begins its work to establish what led to the deaths.
The committee will also have access to records and other materials considered relevant to the case.
Tunji-Ojo stressed the need for cooperation from the NSCDC and every officer connected to the matter.
