Human rights lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, on Saturday vowed to expose any attempt to shield or suppress the truth in the death of 37 alleged illegal miners in Minna, Niger State.

Adeyanju made the remark while accepting his appointment as a member of the Independent committee to investigate the death of miners in Minna, Niger State.

Appreciating the government for the appointment, Adeyanju vowed to protect the interest of the victims and ensure that the truth is unravelled.

In a statement he signed, the activist lawyer said: “Following the decision of the Government to constitute a committee to investigate the deaths of the alleged gold miners in Minna, Niger State, I have been invited to serve on the committee, with a view to ensuring that the interests of the victims are adequately represented.

“I have accepted this responsibility and thank the Government for considering me worthy to serve. I am joining the committee solely to protect the interests of the victims and ensure that the truth is established.”

Adeyanju also cautioned the government against any form of monetary provisions or honorarium to members of the committee.

He described the committee’s duty as a national assignment and members must be prepared to sacrifice.

Adeyanju added: “I urge the Government not to make any monetary provision, stipend or honorarium for members of the committee, as this is a national duty for which we should be prepared to sacrifice.”

The rights lawyer promised to cover his own expenses and costs incurred while carrying out his duties.

“I will not accept any such payment, and I will not participate in or tolerate any attempt to compromise the investigation or cover up wrongdoing. I undertake to take care of my hotel, transportation and other expenses myself.

“If there is any attempt to shield those responsible or suppress the truth, I will expose it. The victims deserve justice, and the Nigerian factor as we know it must not be allowed to prevail,” he further added.