Six Nigerian tourists have been detained in Cape Verde under allegations of insufficient funds. NiDCOM chair Abike Dabiri-Erewa is calling for their release, citing medical concerns and procedural irregularities. The Nigerian government is engaging diplomatic channels to ensure the tourists’ safe return amid rising social media outrage.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has called on authorities in Cape Verde to urgently release six Nigerian citizens currently being held at an immigration detention facility at Sal International Airport. The individuals, all in their twenties and early thirties, traveled from Senegal to Cape Verde for a holiday, but were detained on arrival.
According to a statement released by NiDCOM’s spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the tourists were allegedly profiled at immigration, accused of insufficient funds, and had their phones confiscated. No legal representation has been provided, and concerns are growing about the group’s welfare—especially one individual reportedly suffering from a medical condition and without access to necessary medication.
Dabiri-Erewa expressed deep concern for the safety and dignity of the Nigerians, urging Cape Verdean officials to release them and facilitate their return to Dakar en route to Nigeria.
“This is a matter of great concern for their families and the nation,” she said, noting that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Consular and Migration Directorate are now involved.
