By Ebi Kesiena
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has strongly condemned the arrest of 42 Nigerian nationals in Mozambique, describing the action as disturbing and calling for their immediate release.
The Chairman of the Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, expressed concern over the development, noting that the Nigerians were allegedly arrested without any formal charges or explanation from authorities.
In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by the Commission’s Director of Media, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Dabiri-Erewa described the situation as unacceptable, particularly as reports indicate that the Nigerians were singled out among other traders.
She stated that if any of the individuals had violated the law, the appropriate step would be to charge them before a competent court rather than detaining them without explanation.
According to her, the alleged targeting and arrest of only Nigerians raises concerns about a possible xenophobic action against the country’s citizens living in Mozambique.
Reports indicate that the Nigerians were apprehended at a spare parts market where they operate businesses, despite the presence of other traders and individuals at the location. They were reportedly singled out during the operation and detained without being informed of any specific offences.
NiDCOM also noted that those arrested are said to be legal residents in Mozambique, while reports suggest that the country’s Attorney-General’s office is not aware of any formal charges filed against them.
The Commission further expressed concern over allegations that some of the detained Nigerians were beaten during the arrest, had their personal belongings taken, and are currently facing deteriorating health conditions, with several reportedly requiring urgent medical attention.
Dabiri-Erewa therefore urged the Mozambican authorities to either release the Nigerians immediately or ensure that due legal process is followed by formally charging them in court if any offence has been committed.
She reiterated the Commission’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora and called for fair and humane treatment of Nigerian citizens abroad.
