A social crusader and activist, Idris Abubakar, has called for a thorough investigation into the tragic deaths of detainees in Niger State custody. On November 2, 2026, Abubakar demanded that all officers found responsible for the incident be held accountable, regardless of their positions. The incident has raised serious questions about the treatment of detainees and the failure of institutional safeguards.
According to the Federal Government's investigative committee, 33 detainees, including 14 minors, lost their lives in the custody tragedy. Abubakar stressed that the circumstances surrounding the deaths, including overcrowding, poor ventilation, excessive heat, and dehydration, were unacceptable. He emphasized that suspected involvement in illegal mining did not diminish the rights of the victims, and government agencies had a responsibility to protect everyone in their custody.
Abubakar addressed calls for the removal of the Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi. He cautioned against rushing to blame Audi without establishing his direct involvement in the operation. Abubakar cited reported findings that the NSCDC national headquarters was not informed before the operation commenced, arguing that this should be considered in determining whether Audi personally authorized it.
However, Abubakar maintained that the Commandant-General still had a responsibility to ensure effective supervision and oversight of the Corps. He stressed that any proven failure at that level must also attract accountability. Abubakar emphasized that responsibility should be determined by evidence rather than public anger, noting that the distinction between leading a national institution and directly supervising individual operations was crucial.
The activist called for answers on several key issues, including when the national headquarters was informed, whether there had been previous complaints about the detention facility, and whether adequate inspection and reporting procedures were in place. Abubakar warned against limiting accountability to the removal of one official, arguing that operational officers, supervisors, and senior commanders whose actions or omissions contributed to the tragedy should also face scrutiny.
Abubakar urged the government to implement comprehensive reforms in detention procedures, including regular inspections, enforceable capacity limits, proper custody records, adequate ventilation, access to water and medical attention, and stronger safeguards for minors. He also called for appropriate support for the bereaved families and survivors, insisting that officers found culpable must face disciplinary and judicial processes.
The activist emphasized that the central issue should not merely be the replacement of Prof. Audi, but whether the government is prepared to establish the truth, punish those responsible, and prevent a recurrence. Abubakar added that the victims deserved justice, their families deserved answers, and survivors deserved a system that protects rather than endangers people in custody.
Key points
- Activist Idris Abubakar calls for thorough investigation into Niger custody tragedy
- 33 detainees, including 14 minors, died in Niger State custody
- Abubakar demands accountability and comprehensive reforms in detention procedures
