Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri Erewa, has strongly condemned the arrest of 42 Nigerians in Mozambique, describing the action as disturbing and unacceptable.
In a statement issued through the Director of Media Public Relations and Protocol at the commission Abdur Rahman Balogun, Dabiri Erewa expressed deep concern over reports that only Nigerians were singled out and arrested during the operation.
According to the statement the Nigerians were reportedly picked up at a spare parts market despite the presence of traders and individuals from other countries. She said the development raises serious questions and could be interpreted as a xenophobic action targeting Nigerian citizens.
Dabiri Erewa therefore called on Mozambican authorities to immediately release the detained Nigerians. She stated that if any of them had committed an offence they should be formally charged and taken before a competent court of law instead of being held without clear allegations.
The NiDCOM boss stressed that the rule of law and respect for human rights must always be upheld regardless of nationality. She added that arbitrary arrests without charges undermine international standards of justice and fairness.
Reports indicate that the Nigerians involved are legal residents of Mozambique and were engaged in legitimate business activities at the market where the arrests reportedly occurred. It was also gathered that the Attorney General in the area is not aware of any official charges filed against the detained individuals.
The statement further alleged that some of the Nigerians were beaten during the arrest while personal belongings were confiscated. Several of the detainees are also said to be sick and in need of urgent medical attention.
Dabiri Erewa urged the Mozambican government to investigate the situation and ensure the safety welfare and rights of Nigerian citizens living in the country.
She reaffirmed that the Nigerian government remains committed to protecting its citizens abroad and will continue to engage relevant authorities to resolve the matter.
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