The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Niger State Chapter, has condemned the death of 37 young artisanal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Minna.

The State Chairman of CAN and Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Most Reverend Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, described the incident as tragic and unacceptable.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Bishop Yohanna called on the Niger State Government to constitute committees of inquiry to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

He commiserated with Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, the people of the state and, particularly, the families of the deceased.

The CAN chairman also appealed to the relatives of the victims and residents of the state to remain calm and law-abiding while relevant authorities investigate the incident.

He expressed hope that the investigation would unravel the circumstances that led to the deaths.

Bishop Yohanna prayed to Almighty God to grant the deceased eternal rest and give their families the strength to bear the loss.