The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for an immediate, independent and transparent investigation into the deaths of 37 Nigerians in custody of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger.
In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party demanded independent autopsies, publication of victims’ identities and detention records.
It also called for compensation for the families of the deceased and prosecution of officials found responsible for any wrongdoing surrounding their deaths.
The party expressed condolences to the families, insisting that arrest during raids on mining sites did not remove citizens’ constitutional rights to life.
The party said poverty and unemployment should not expose Nigerians to death, urging authorities to ensure humane treatment and protection of detainees.
“We must be clear: poverty is not a capital offence. Unemployment is not a death sentence,” the party said.
It stated that allegations against detainees, including involvement in illegal mining, should not prevent authorities from respecting their fundamental rights and ensuring due process.
The party urged the government to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths, identify those responsible and take appropriate measures to prevent similar incidents.
The party further called for improved accountability within security institutions, stressing that Nigerians in custody remained entitled to humane treatment and protection.
It urged the Federal government to provide jobs, security and justice, while addressing economic conditions that could push vulnerable citizens toward dangerous survival strategies. (NAN)(NAN)
