NIDCOM Condemns Arrest of 42 Nigerians in Mozambique

The Nigerian Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has condemned the arrest of 42 Nigerians in Mozambique, calling for their immediate release and warning against xenophobia. The Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described the development as disturbing, particularly since no offenses have reportedly been charged against the detainees.

A statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, signed by the agency's Director of Media and Public Relations, Abdur Rahman Balogun, highlighted that the arrests occurred in a spare parts market, where individuals were detained without clear explanations. Dabiri-Erewa emphasized that the situation depicted xenophobic attacks against Nigerian citizens and urged Mozambican authorities to ensure due process is followed.

Reports indicate that the arrested Nigerians confirmed their legal residency, and the Attorney General was reportedly unaware of any charges against them. Dabiri-Erewa also noted that some detainees had been beaten and required medical attention, calling for prompt action to safeguard the rights and safety of affected Nigerians.