The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has expressed concern over the deaths of 37 persons in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State, demanding urgent answers and a transparent investigation into the incident.
Obi said the deceased persons had been arrested as suspects and stressed that their status did not remove their right to life, humane treatment and protection while due process was ongoing.
In a statement, Obi said, “Let’s begin to give dignity to human lives in our land,” describing the deaths as a deeply troubling tragedy that demands urgent answers.
He said whatever offences the deceased were suspected of committing, they remained human beings, adding that the responsibility of the state was to keep them alive, safe and treated humanely while due process took its course.
Obi said it was particularly disturbing that such a large number of people could die within a place of detention in such a short period.
He noted that investigations were ongoing into the actual cause of the deaths, including reports concerning disease, overcrowding and inadequate ventilation.
The former Anambra State governor said Nigerians deserved a transparent, independent and credible investigation capable of establishing exactly what happened.
“This tragedy also reminds us that security is not merely about arresting people. Security is about protecting lives, upholding the dignity of every citizen, and ensuring that the institutions entrusted with our safety operate within the law,” Obi said.
He said the incident raised concerns about accountability when people entered government custody alive but died without immediate, transparent and credible explanations.
“A nation cannot claim to value human life when people can enter government custody alive and emerge dead without immediate, transparent, and credible accountability,” he said.
Obi extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and urged the authorities to ensure that justice was done.
He also called for a country where the rule of law protects every citizen, including those in government custody.
“Nigeria must become a country where the rule of law protects every citizen, not only those who are free but also those who are in custody,” he said.
He prayed for strength for the families of the deceased as they mourn their loss.
