Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of dozens of Nigerians while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State, describing the incident as a tragedy that demands justice and full accountability.
In a statement on Saturday, Atiku said he was “deeply saddened and profoundly disturbed” by the reported deaths, stressing that every Nigerian deserves protection and dignity while in government custody, regardless of the allegations against them.
According to him, the victims were “sons, fathers, brothers and loved ones” whose families had every right to expect that the state would safeguard their lives.
“No Nigerian should enter government custody and lose the most basic right of all: the right to life,” he stated.
The former presidential candidate welcomed the Federal Government’s decision to suspend the officers on duty when the incident occurred and to order a comprehensive investigation into the tragedy.
He, however, maintained that the action should only mark the beginning of the process, insisting that the investigation must be independent, thorough and transparent.
“The investigation must be independent, thorough and transparent, and its findings must be made public. Anyone found responsible through action, abuse or negligence must be held fully accountable,” Atiku said.
He added that the bereaved families deserved more than sympathy, insisting they must receive the truth and justice for their loved ones.
“The families of the deceased deserve more than condolences. They deserve the truth. They deserve justice. And Nigerians deserve the assurance that custody by the state will never become a death sentence,” he added.
Atiku also extended his condolences to the affected families, praying that God would grant them strength and comfort while the truth behind the incident is uncovered without delay.
The statement comes amid nationwide concern over the deaths of dozens of suspected illegal miners who reportedly died while in NSCDC custody in Niger State. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with growing calls for accountability, justice for the victims and reforms to prevent similar tragedies in the future. President Bola Tinubu has since ordered a full investigation into the incident, while the officers directly involved have been suspended pending the outcome of the probe.
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