Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar has condemned the deaths of dozens of Nigerians while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State, calling for justice, transparency and full accountability.
The former Nigeria’s Vice President, in a statement posted on X on Thursday, described the deaths as “deeply saddening and profoundly disturbing,” stressing that those in government custody had the right to have their lives and dignity protected.
“No Nigerian should enter government custody and lose the most basic right of all: the right to life,” he said.
He commended the Federal Government for suspending the officers under whose watch the incident occurred and ordering a full investigation.
However, the former vice president said the investigation must be independent, thorough and transparent, with its findings made public.
According to him, anyone found responsible through “action, abuse or negligence” must be held fully accountable.
Atiku also said the families of the deceased deserved more than condolences, insisting that they must be given the truth and justice.
“My heart goes out to the bereaved families. I pray that God grants them strength and comfort in this painful hour, and that the truth is established without delay,” he said.
