The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has issued a stern condemnation following the reported arrest and detention of 42 Nigerians at a spare parts market in Mozambique. The Commission has called for their immediate release, describing the incident as a targeted and “distasteful” act against Nigerian citizens.
In a statement released in Abuja on Sunday, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NIDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, expressed deep concern over the development, noting that no formal charges have been brought against the detainees.
Reports reaching the Commission indicate that the 42 individuals were specifically singled out from a diverse group of traders at the market. Most concerning are the allegations that the detainees confirmed to be legal residents of Mozambique were subjected to physical assault and the theft of their personal belongings during the operation.
The statement, signed by the agency’s Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols, Mr Abdur-Rahman Balogun, highlighted a lack of judicial transparency. According to NIDCOM, even the Mozambican Attorney General is reportedly unaware of any criminal allegations justifying the mass detention.
“If they run foul of the law, the authorities should arraign and charge them before a court of law,” Hon. Dabiri-Erewa stated. “The reported selective arrest of Nigerians depicts a xenophobic attack on Nigerian citizens.”
NIDCOM has raised the alarm regarding the deteriorating health of several detainees, noting that many have fallen ill while in custody and are in urgent need of medical attention. The Commission maintains that the safety and fundamental rights of these Nigerians must be guaranteed under international law.
Summary of the NIDCOM Position:
- Immediate Action: Demanding the unconditional release of all 42 Nigerians or an immediate, transparent arraignment.
- Due Process: Urging the Mozambican authorities to adhere to international legal standards regarding the treatment of legal residents.
- Diplomatic Protest: Formally categorising the incident as a xenophobic action due to the “selective” nature of the arrests.
Hon. Dabiri-Erewa concluded by calling on the Mozambican government to address the situation with the necessary urgency to prevent further diplomatic friction. The Commission remains in contact with relevant stakeholders to ensure the security of Nigerians living and doing business within the Southern African nation.
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