Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep sadness and disturbance over the deaths of dozens of Nigerians who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State, insisting that the victims’ families deserve nothing less than the full truth and justice.
In a post on his handle on Friday, Atiku described the deceased as human beings, sons, fathers, brothers and loved ones, whose families had every right to expect that the state would protect their lives and dignity while they remained in its custody, regardless of whatever allegations they faced.
“No Nigerian should enter government custody and lose the most basic right of all: the right to life,” he said.
While commending the Federal Government for its swift decision to suspend the officers under whose watch the tragedy occurred and to order a full investigation, Atiku stressed that this must only be a first step.
He called for the investigation to be independent, thorough and transparent, with its findings made public, and insisted that anyone found responsible through action, abuse or negligence must be held fully accountable.
“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,” Atiku added.
Extending condolences to the bereaved families, the former Vice President prayed that God would grant them strength and comfort in this painful hour, and that the truth surrounding the tragedy would be established without delay.
