Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep concern over the deaths of dozens of Nigerians while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.
Atiku, who served as Nigeria’s Vice-President from 1999 to 2007, described the incident as deeply disturbing, stressing that the deceased were sons, fathers, brothers and loved ones whose families had a legitimate expectation that the state would protect their lives and dignity while in custody.
He said no Nigerian should lose the fundamental right to life simply by coming under government custody, regardless of the allegations against them.
Atiku commended the Federal Government for suspending the officers allegedly responsible for the custody of the victims and ordering an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
However, he urged the authorities to ensure that the investigation is independent, thorough and transparent, with its findings made public.
According to him, anyone found culpable through direct action, abuse of authority or negligence should be held fully accountable.
The former Vice-President said the bereaved families deserved more than expressions of sympathy, insisting that they were entitled to the truth and justice.
He also called for assurances that government custody would never become a death sentence, while extending his condolences to the families of the deceased.
Atiku prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved families and urged authorities to establish the truth without delay.
