- Dabiri-Erewa Slams Arrest of 42 Nigerians, Raises Xenophobia Concerns
- Demands Release of 29 Still Detained
- Reports indicate that the arrests took place at a spare parts market, where Nigerians were allegedly picked up without any explanation
The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has strongly condemned the arrest of 42 Nigerians in Mozambique, describing the incident as “distasteful” and raising concerns over possible xenophobia, Eko Hot Blog reports.
According to NIDCOM, 13 of the detained Nigerians have already been repatriated to Nigeria, arriving late Tuesday night via South African Airways.
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However, 29 others remain in custody, prompting calls for their immediate release.
Dabiri-Erewa, in a statement signed by the Commission’s spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, questioned why only Nigerians were allegedly singled out during the operation. She urged Mozambican authorities to either formally charge the remaining detainees if they have committed any offence or release them without delay.
Reports indicate that the arrests took place at a spare parts market, where Nigerians were allegedly picked up without any explanation, despite other traders being present. The NIDCOM boss described the development as suggestive of a targeted action against Nigerian citizens.
She further alleged that some of the detainees were subjected to harsh treatment, including beatings, while their belongings were reportedly taken. Many are also said to be unwell and in need of medical attention.
“The Nigerians arrested have been confirmed to be legal residents, and there are reports that even the Attorney General is not aware of any charges against them,” she noted.
Dabiri-Erewa called on Mozambican authorities to uphold the rule of law and ensure the safety and rights of Nigerians in the country, stressing that arbitrary arrests without charges are unacceptable.
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