The Digest:
The Federal Government, through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has condemned the arrest of 42 Nigerians in Mozambique, describing the action as unacceptable and demanding their immediate release. Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa expressed concern that the Nigerians were allegedly arrested without formal charges and that "only Nigerians were reportedly singled out during the operation." In a statement, NiDCOM described the incident as "distasteful and worrying," suggesting it could be a xenophobic action. The Commission stated that the individuals are legal residents, and Mozambique's Attorney General is reportedly unaware of any charges. Allegations include that some detainees were beaten, had personal belongings confiscated, and several are ill and need medical attention. NiDCOM urged Mozambican authorities to either release the detainees or follow due legal process by formally charging them in court.
Key Points
- The alleged singling out of Nigerians raises xenophobia concerns.
- No formal charges filed against the 42 detainees.
- Reports of beatings, confiscated belongings, and illness among detainees.
- Mozambique's AG reportedly unaware of any charges.
- NiDCOM demands due process or immediate release.
Sources: NiDCOM Statement
