By Isiaka Mustapha Editor-in-Chief, People’s Security Monitor

Former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (retd), has denied allegations linking him to the ownership of a gold mining site in Niger State where 37 suspected illegal miners were arrested before later dying in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).The former Head of State’s reaction followed claims that the mining site where the suspects were operating belonged to him. The allegation surfaced amid growing public concern and ongoing investigations into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the detainees.Responding to the claims through his representative, Dr Danladi Umar Abdulhameed, Babangida described the allegation as false, baseless and misleading. He insisted that he has no ownership interest, operational role or business connection with the mining site in question.According to the statement, attempts to associate the former military ruler with the mining operation were unfounded and should be disregarded. Babangida maintained that he has never been involved in the activities of the mine and urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information.The controversy emerged after NSCDC operatives arrested scores of suspected illegal miners during enforcement operations in parts of Niger State. The suspects were subsequently detained at an NSCDC facility in Minna.The incident took a tragic turn when 37 of the detainees were reported dead while in custody, sparking outrage and calls for accountability from citizens, civil society organisations and community leaders.The deaths have generated widespread debate across the country, with questions being raised about the conditions under which the suspects were held and the circumstances that led to the tragedy.In response, both federal and state authorities have ordered comprehensive investigations into the incident. Relevant agencies have commenced inquiries aimed at establishing the cause of death and determining whether any lapses occurred during the arrest and detention processes.The leadership of the NSCDC has also initiated an internal investigation, assuring the public that the circumstances surrounding the deaths will be thoroughly examined and that anyone found culpable will face appropriate sanctions.Meanwhile, Babangida expressed sympathy to the families of the deceased and called for a transparent investigation that would uncover the truth and ensure justice for all those affected by the tragedy.As investigations continue, authorities are expected to establish the facts surrounding both the mining operation and the deaths of the detainees, while efforts remain focused on ensuring accountability and preventing a recurrence of such an incident.