NiDCOM Warns Against Ethnic Stereotyping, Says Crime Has No Tribe

The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has cautioned against the growing trend of ethnic stereotyping in Nigeria, stating firmly that criminal behaviour is not exclusive to any tribe or region.

Speaking on Arise Newsday on Sunday, Dabiri-Erewa emphasized that crime should be treated as an individual act, not a collective reflection of an ethnic group. “Crime has no federal character,” she declared. “We must stop assigning the wrongdoing of a few individuals to entire communities.”

She noted that Nigeria consistently urges other countries not to label its citizens abroad based on isolated incidents, and the same principle must apply within the country.

“Just as we defend Nigerians abroad from unfair treatment and prejudice, we must also protect one another here at home from ethnic bias,” she added.

Dabiri-Erewa reiterated the federal government’s commitment to safeguarding Nigerians globally, highlighting recent efforts to assist stranded citizens. She confirmed that Nigerians recently rescued from the Central African Republic are in safe custody and will be repatriated following President Tinubu’s directive.

She also raised alarm over ongoing cases of human trafficking, particularly in Libya, warning citizens to beware of traffickers and fake travel agents promising false hopes of life abroad. “These criminal agents are exploiting desperation. Don't fall victim,” she said.

Addressing the media, Dabiri-Erewa urged Nigerian journalists and platforms to amplify positive stories about citizens making meaningful contributions both at home and in the diaspora. “Let’s tell our own stories. There are millions of Nigerians doing great things, and they deserve to be seen and celebrated,” she said.

Her remarks come amid increasing ethnic tensions and discussions around Nigeria’s diaspora image, adding to NiDCOM’s ongoing push for national unity and responsible representation.