Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, has expressed sadness over the reported deaths of several people described as “illegal miners” in Niger State.
In a post on his verified X handle on Friday, Atiku wrote:
“I am deeply saddened and profoundly disturbed by the deaths of dozens of Nigerians while in NSCDC custody in Niger State.
These were human beings—sons, fathers, brothers and loved ones, whose families had every right to expect that, whatever allegations they faced, the state would protect their lives and dignity while they remained in its custody.
No Nigerian should enter government custody and lose the most basic right of all: the right to life.
I commend the Federal Government for the swift decision to suspend the officers under whose watch this tragedy occurred and to order a full investigation. That is an important first step, but it must not end there. 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.
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.
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. -AA”
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