NIDCOM Condemns Detention of 42 Nigerians in Mozambique Over Alleged Assault and Harsh Treatment

NIDCOM Raises Alarm Over Detention of 42 Nigerians in Mozambique, Alleges Assault and Poor Treatment

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission has expressed serious concern over the arrest and detention of 42 Nigerian citizens in Mozambique, following reports that the individuals were subjected to physical assault and harsh conditions while in custody.

According to the commission, information reaching its office suggests that some of the detained Nigerians were beaten during the arrest, robbed of their belongings, and later held in detention facilities under unhealthy conditions.

The situation has drawn attention from Nigerian authorities, who are now seeking clarification from Mozambican officials regarding the circumstances surrounding the arrests.

Chairperson of the commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described the development as disturbing and unacceptable if the reports are confirmed.

She called on authorities in Mozambique to ensure that the detained Nigerians are treated fairly and in line with international standards that protect the rights of migrants and foreign nationals. Dabiri-Erewa also urged officials to conduct a proper investigation into the incident while guaranteeing the safety and welfare of the individuals involved. 

The commission revealed that several of the Nigerians currently in custody have reportedly fallen ill due to the conditions in which they are being held. Family members and concerned Nigerians have raised alarms that some detainees may not be receiving adequate medical care or attention.

NiDCOM says it is working to verify the health status of the affected individuals while ensuring they receive necessary support.

While details about the operation remain limited, early indications suggest that the arrests may have occurred during a security crackdown targeting undocumented migrants or individuals suspected of violating immigration rules.

However, NiDCOM stressed that even if immigration issues are involved, detainees must still be handled lawfully and humanely. The commission noted that every individual deserves due process and access to legal representation, regardless of their immigration status.

The commission also warned that reports suggesting Nigerians were specifically targeted could raise concerns about xenophobic actions against foreign nationals.

Incidents involving discrimination or hostility toward migrants have been recorded in several parts of Africa in the past, often linked to economic pressures and immigration tensions.

NiDCOM emphasized that such treatment could damage relations between African nations and undermine efforts to strengthen unity across the continent.

The commission disclosed that it has begun working with the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs as well as Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in Mozambique to address the matter. Efforts are currently underway to establish communication with Mozambican authorities in order to obtain more information and secure fair treatment for the detained Nigerians.

Officials say the Nigerian government will continue to monitor the situation closely until a clear resolution is reached. 

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The incident highlights the challenges many migrants face while living or working outside their home countries. NiDCOM has urged Nigerians living abroad to always comply with local laws and immigration regulations, while also assuring citizens that the government will continue to advocate for their protection wherever they reside.

For now, families of the affected individuals are hoping that diplomatic engagement will lead to improved conditions for the detainees and possibly their release.