- NiDCOM Raises Alarm Over ‘Inhumane’ Deportation of Nigerians from Mozambique
- Cites Rights Violations
- Expressed disappointment that Nigerian diplomatic officials were not allowed to intervene
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission has confirmed that 40 out of 42 Nigerians arrested in Mozambique have now been deported, raising serious concerns about how the process was handled.
According to the Commission, Eko Hot Blog reports that the deportees returned to Nigeria in three batches; 13, 16, and 11 on March 24, 26, and 27 via South African Airways and Ethiopian Airlines flights. Two individuals, however, remain in Mozambique.
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NiDCOM said the deportation did not follow proper procedures, describing the situation as inhumane and a violation of the individuals’ fundamental rights.
The Commission noted that many of those affected reportedly had valid documentation to live and work in the country.
Spokesperson of the Commission, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, also raised concerns over allegations that money was taken from the detainees during their detention and not returned, with some claiming additional funds were withdrawn from their mobile apps.
The agency further expressed disappointment that Nigerian diplomatic officials were not allowed to intervene, despite efforts by the embassy to engage Mozambican authorities.
While officials in Maputo reportedly described the arrests as part of routine immigration enforcement, NiDCOM said many of the Nigerians were picked up from their business locations without prior notice.
Of the two individuals still in Mozambique, one is said to be married to a Mozambican citizen, while the other was born in the country.
The incident has sparked fresh concerns about the treatment of Nigerians abroad and the need for stronger diplomatic engagement to protect citizens living overseas.
