The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has raised alarm over reports that 42 Nigerian nationals were arrested, beaten, and detained without formal charges in Mozambique. The detainees, reportedly at a local spare-parts market, were allegedly singled out among other traders and held in custody under harsh conditions.
Speaking on the matter, NIDCOM Chairman Abike Dabiri‑Erewa described the arrests as “disturbing, unacceptable, and potentially xenophobic.” She called on Mozambican authorities to either release the Nigerians immediately or formally charge them in accordance with due process.
The commission further stressed that if any of the detainees had violated the law, they should be properly arraigned in court, rather than being held arbitrarily. NIDCOM also urged that the detainees be granted consular access, medical attention, and protection of their rights while in custody.
Officials have expressed concern over the selective nature of the arrests, highlighting that only Nigerian nationals appear to have been targeted, raising fears of xenophobic motives. Many of the detainees are believed to be legal residents in Mozambique, and no formal charges had been recorded at the time of the statement.
NIDCOM’s intervention underscores Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad and ensuring that due legal process and human rights standards are respected. The commission continues to engage with Mozambican authorities to secure the release and safety of the detained Nigerians.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
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