Nigeria Seeks Legal Clarity Over 42 Citizens Detained in Mozambique
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has called on authorities in Mozambique to provide official clarification and ensure proper legal procedures regarding the detention of 42 Nigerian nationals reportedly being held in the country.
The appeal was made by the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, following concerns raised by families of the detainees who have reportedly contacted the commission seeking information about their relatives.
According to NIDCOM, the Nigerian High Commission in Mozambique was not formally notified about the arrests, raising diplomatic and consular concerns about the circumstances under which the Nigerians were taken into custody.
Reports suggest the detainees may have been held over alleged immigration violations, including claims that they overstayed their permits. However, Mozambican investigators have only confirmed that the 42 Nigerians are in custody and have yet to provide detailed information about the allegations or legal process involved.
Dabiri-Erewa said the commission had received several distress messages from relatives worried about the safety and welfare of their family members.
She also alleged that personal items belonging to the detainees, including mobile phones, money, and other valuables, were seized at the time of their arrest.
While emphasising that Nigeria does not support unlawful conduct by its citizens abroad, the NIDCOM chair stressed that all individuals deserve fair treatment under the law and must be informed of the charges against them.
She urged Mozambican authorities to either formally charge the detainees in court if there is evidence of wrongdoing or release them without delay.
The commission noted that the Nigerian diplomatic mission has already written to relevant officials in Mozambique, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Attorney General’s office, requesting clarification and consular access to the detained citizens.
NIDCOM added that it will continue to engage with Mozambican authorities to ensure that the rights, safety, and welfare of the affected Nigerians are protected.
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