Niger PDP Flagbearer Muhammad Nami Halts Campaign Activities Over Death of 37 Detainees
By Yahaya Zakka Minna.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governorship Candidate in Niger State, Muhammad Mamman Nami, has suspended all planned political engagements across the state following the death of at least 40 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The suspension affects an enlarged State Executive Committee meeting and several scheduled consultative sessions with key stakeholders.
In a statement personally signed by him, Nami stated that halting political activities was a necessary mark of respect for the deceased and an expression of solidarity with the bereaved families and impacted communities. He noted that political matters must take a back seat during moments of collective grief and solemn reflection.
”The circumstances surrounding this tragedy require compassion and sober reflection,” Nami said, offering his condolences to the affected families and communities.
Addressing the ongoing inquiry into the incident, the gubernatorial candidate welcomed official investigations but demanded a thorough, transparent, and impartial process. He stressed that any probe must uphold the fundamental human rights and dignity of both the deceased and the surviving detainees, emphasizing that facing allegations does not strip individuals of their core human dignity.
Nami also called on the state government and relevant authorities to urgently release verified information regarding the identities of the victims and to provide immediate support to their families.
Appealing for calm, Nami urged residents, community leaders, and affected relatives to refrain from self-help or actions that could heighten tensions. He advised citizens to channel their grievances through constitutional channels, safeguard their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and remain peacefully engaged in the democratic process to demand accountability.
The PDP campaign council confirmed that new dates for the suspended party meetings and stakeholder engagements will be announced in due course.
