The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Sokoto State, Manir Muhammad Dan’iya, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Usama Murtala, an indigene of Sokoto State who died in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, shortly after regaining his freedom from detention.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Aminu Abdullahi, Dan’iya described the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy that has plunged the deceased’s family, the people of Sokoto State, and Nigerians into mourning.
He extended his heartfelt condolences to the parents, siblings, relatives, friends, and associates of the late Usama Murtala, praying to Almighty Allah to grant them the strength and fortitude to bear what he described as an irreparable loss.
According to the ADC governorship candidate, the late Usama’s death serves as a painful reminder of the risks and sacrifices many young Nigerians undertake in search of better economic opportunities outside the country.
“It is deeply painful that a young man who left home with dreams, aspirations, and hope for a better future could lose his life under such tragic circumstances. His death is not only a loss to his family but also to Sokoto State and Nigeria, where our youths represent the promise of tomorrow,” Dan’iya said.
He commended the efforts of the Nigerian diplomatic mission in Côte d’Ivoire and the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs for securing the release of the detained Nigerians but expressed sadness that the intervention came too late to save Usama Murtala’s life.
Dan’iya also sympathised with the other Nigerians who survived the ordeal and prayed for their full recovery from the emotional and psychological trauma they endured during their detention.
He called on the relevant authorities to pursue justice by ensuring that the circumstances surrounding Usama’s detention and death are thoroughly investigated through appropriate diplomatic channels.
“The protection and welfare of Nigerian citizens, whether at home or abroad, must remain a national priority. Every Nigerian deserves dignity, justice, and consular protection regardless of where they may find themselves,” he stated.
The ADC candidate further urged Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad to comply with the laws of their host countries, use legitimate migration channels, and maintain regular contact with Nigerian diplomatic missions whenever necessary.
He reaffirmed his commitment to policies that would create jobs, promote entrepreneurship, and expand economic opportunities for young people in Sokoto State, stressing that no youth should be forced by economic hardship to embark on uncertain journeys in search of survival.
Dan’iya concluded by praying for the repose of the late Usama Murtala, asking Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus, comfort his bereaved family, and strengthen everyone affected by the tragedy.
He also prayed for the protection of the surviving young Nigerians and called for greater national efforts to safeguard the lives and aspirations of the country’s youth.
