NiDCOM Reacts to Detention of Nigerian Citizen Abdul Olatunji in South Africa

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has reacted to reports of Abdul Olatunji, a Nigerian citizen allegedly detained in South Africa since 2019 without a fair trial.

In a statement on Monday, NiDCOM disclosed that it had contacted the Acting Nigerian High Commissioner in South Africa to engage with South African authorities and seek clarification on the matter.

“This case raises serious concerns about due process and justice. We have taken immediate steps to investigate and ensure fairness,” NiDCOM stated.

According to NiDCOM, the case was not previously reported to either the commission or the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa. However, both bodies have now prioritized the matter alongside other cases involving Nigerians in the country.

NiDCOM also revealed that Elizabeth Johnson, President of the Nigerian Women’s Association South Africa, had informed the commission of her group’s intervention. “We have reached out to Abdul Olatunji and are making arrangements for a prison visitation soon,” she said.

In addition, NiDCOM Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa has spoken with Olatunji’s brother to gather more details about his situation.

Reports allege that Abdul Olatunji has been held since 2019 on false and malicious charges. His family has accused South African officials of orchestrating the charges and has called for urgent intervention by the Nigerian Federal Government.

“We assure the public that this matter will be thoroughly investigated,” NiDCOM Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, said in the statement. “The Federal Government of Nigeria will do everything possible to ensure justice and fairness for Abdul Olatunji.”

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights of Nigerians abroad and urged citizens to promptly report similar cases to relevant authorities to facilitate swift intervention.