Nigeria Secures Amnesty for 198 Citizens in Indian Prisons

The Nigerian federal government, through its High Commission in India, has engaged with 198 Nigerians imprisoned in various facilities across Maharashtra, Mumbai, as of September 1. Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols at NIDCOM, stated that the High Commission has previously secured amnesty for thousands of Nigerians imprisoned mainly for immigration offences between September of the previous year and May of this year.

Many have returned home, although some did not take advantage of the amnesty. Amb.

Bianca Ojukwu is currently negotiating for an additional six-month amnesty for Nigerians detained without trial. The High Commission is also addressing individual cases, including that of Mr. Ekene, and is pressuring the Indian government to expedite trials for those awaiting court proceedings.

Nigerians in India are advised to utilize the upcoming amnesty while avoiding illegal residency to prevent arrest. The amnesty does not apply to those awaiting trial for serious criminal offences.