The Federal Government has announced a ₦250 million support package for the families of the 37 victims who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.
Vice President Kashim Shettima announced the support during a condolence visit to the Niger State Government and the people of the state over the deaths.
Shettima described the incident as unfortunate, saying the Federal Government shares in the pain of the bereaved families and remains committed to protecting every Nigerian without distinction.
He said the death of the 37 young men in NSCDC custody was a matter of national concern, stressing that every citizen deprived of liberty remains entitled to the protection of the state.
According to him, no allegation should diminish that entitlement, while those responsible must be held accountable through due process.
Shettima said the Federal Government owes the bereaved families justice and answers over the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
While commiserating with the families, the Vice President commended Governor Umaru Bago for his efforts in seeking justice for the victims.
He, however, appealed to the people of Niger State not to politicise the tragedy or demonise the Governor, urging citizens to remain fair to one another at a time of mourning.
Responding, Governor Umaru Bago thanked the Vice President for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of compassion and national solidarity with the people of Niger State.
Bago said the State Government’s demand for justice was not an act of vengeance but a moral responsibility to ensure that citizens do not lose their lives in the hands of those entrusted with their protection.
He assured the Federal Government of the state’s cooperation with the investigative team constituted to unravel the circumstances surrounding the deaths, stressing that the people of Niger State deserve answers and the families deserve justice.
The governor also pledged the state’s support for Federal Government efforts to regulate mining activities and protect national assets, while calling for greater investment in safe, legal and dignified economic opportunities for young Nigerians.
Meanwhile, the Principal Private Secretary to the Governor, Emmanuel Umar, has thanked the Vice President for the visit, saying his presence demonstrated solidarity with the bereaved families and the people of Niger State.
He said the Federal Government’s intervention had renewed the hope of the affected families that their welfare and quest for justice were being taken seriously.
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