“No Nigerian should lose right to life in custody” — Atiku on Niger deaths

The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Atiku Abubakar, has demanded justice over the deaths of Nigerians who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Niger State.

Atiku said those who died were human beings whose lives and dignity should have been protected while in government custody.

He made this known in a statement shared on X while reacting to the incident and the Federal Government’s decision to suspend officers linked to it and order an investigation.

“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,” Atiku said.

He called for an independent, thorough and transparent investigation, insisting that its findings should be made public.

Atiku also said anyone found responsible through action, abuse or negligence must be held accountable.

“No Nigerian should enter government custody and lose the most basic right of all: the right to life,” he said.

“The families of the deceased deserve more than condolences. They deserve the truth. They deserve justice,” he added.