Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru-Bago has cancelled the All Progressives Congress (APC) political rally scheduled for Saturday in Minna following the deaths of 33 illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The governor also declared a three-day mourning period in honour of the deceased, as he called on residents of the state to remain calm.
Bago announced the cancellation in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Bologi Ibrahim, on Thursday in Minna.
The governor said suspending the rally was a response to the gravity of the incident and a mark of respect for the families and communities affected by the deaths.
He expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, describing the incident as unfortunate and deeply saddening.
Bago also assured residents that the circumstances surrounding the deaths would receive appropriate attention.
He urged the people of Niger State to remain calm and prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased.
The APC rally had been scheduled to hold on Saturday in Minna before the governor announced its cancellation following the deaths.
