Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called for a transparent and independent investigation into the deaths of 37 persons in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
Obi described the incident as a “deeply troubling tragedy,” stressing that the deceased were suspects who remained entitled to humane treatment while in government custody.
“Whatever offence they were suspected of committing, they were still human beings, and the responsibility of the State was to keep them alive, safe, and treated humanely while due process took its course,” he said.
He said the number of deaths recorded within a short period was particularly disturbing, noting reports concerning disease, overcrowding and inadequate ventilation as possible factors.
Obi, however, said the actual cause of the deaths must be established through a credible investigation.
“Nigerians deserve a transparent, independent, and credible investigation that establishes exactly what happened,” he said.
The former governor said the incident also highlighted the need to redefine security beyond the arrest and detention of suspects.
“Security is about protecting lives, upholding the dignity of every citizen, and ensuring that the institutions entrusted with our safety operate within the law,” he said.
Obi warned that government institutions must be accountable for the welfare and safety of persons in their custody.
“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.
He expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and urged the authorities to ensure that justice was done.
“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,” Obi said.
He concluded by praying for strength for the bereaved families and called for greater respect for human dignity in Nigeria.