Rescued Nigerian Workers Allege Sexual Abuse by Chinese Employers in Central African Republic

Twelve Nigerian workers rescued from the Central African Republic (CAR) have alleged that they were sexually abused by their Chinese employers while working in mining sites

The returnees, whose distress video went viral three weeks ago, were formally received in Abuja on Friday at the headquarters of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) by its Chairman/CEO, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, alongside senior management officials.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Igorigo Freeborn recounted their ordeal, revealing that they were not only owed 11 months’ salaries but also subjected to homosexual abuse.

“I am not ashamed to say it. I want people to learn from it. We were treated badly there, but thank God for sparing our lives to tell the story,” Freeborn said.“I was one of those who doubted Nigeria’s ability to help its citizens abroad, but I am grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerian Mission in Bangui, NIDCOM, NEMA, and Immigration Service for rescuing us almost immediately.”

The workers narrated how they endured 20 months of starvation, unpaid wages, and unsafe living conditions after being abandoned in a forest worksite. With support from the Nigerian Presidency, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and NIDCOM, they were relocated to Bangui, provided medical care, and evacuated back to Nigeria.

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa condemned the abuse as “inhumane and unacceptable,” assuring that the Federal Government would pursue justice in line with President Tinubu’s citizen diplomacy agenda.She also urged the returnees to partner with NIDCOM in raising awareness about the dangers of irregular migration.

To assist their reintegration, NIDCOM provided cash support, while Perchstone and Greys, through the JAALS Foundation, donated additional funds. Presenting the donation, Mr. Toyin Adenugba, representing Dr. Tolu Aderemi, said the gesture was intended to help the men rebuild their lives and support their families.

Other rescued workers include Rotimi Kupoluyi, Ajosi Julius, Odeh Collins, Anifowoshe Yekini, Akubo Oluwaseun, Olayemi Peter Adewale, Stephen Abel Otkli, Samuel Ojochenemi, Alih Joel Muhammed, Unekwu Bala, and Yusuf Bameyi.

Dabiri-Erewa reaffirmed that the Nigerian government will engage CAR authorities and relevant international partners to ensure the workers’ unpaid salaries are recovered and the alleged offenders prosecuted.