The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has condemned the arrest of 42 Nigerians in Mozambique, describing the development as disturbing and unacceptable.
Chairman/CEO of the Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, made this known in a statement signed by the Commission’s spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun. She called on Mozambican authorities to either release the detained Nigerians immediately or formally charge them in accordance with the law.
“It is distasteful to learn that only Nigerians were allegedly singled out for arrest without any offence levelled against them,” she said.
“If they have run foul of the law, they should be properly arraigned before a court of competent jurisdiction.”
According to reports cited by NiDCOM, the Nigerians were arrested at a spare parts market, where they were allegedly singled out among other traders and detained without explanation.
Dabiri-Erewa described the incident as suggestive of possible xenophobic action, noting that the selective arrest raises serious concerns about discrimination against Nigerian nationals.
“The sudden and selective roundup of Nigerians alone raises serious concerns and suggests a pattern that could be perceived as xenophobic,” she stated.
The Commission further disclosed that the detained individuals are legal residents in Mozambique, with no known charges filed against them. It also raised concerns over alleged maltreatment during the arrests.
“There are reports that some of them were beaten, their personal belongings taken, and several are now ill and in need of urgent medical attention,” the statement added.
NiDCOM urged Mozambican authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the detainees while due process is followed.
Dabiri-Erewa reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad and called for swift diplomatic intervention to resolve the matter, stressing that international relations must be guided by mutual respect and adherence to legal frameworks.
The Commission affirmed that it will continue to monitor the situation and engage relevant stakeholders to ensure justice and protection for Nigerians in the diaspora.