 has appealed to Cape Verdean immigration officials for the release of six Nigerian citizens){kind=link}
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has appealed to Cape Verdean immigration officials for the release of six Nigerian citizens detained at a deportation facility in the country.
In a statement on Wednesday, April 16, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, who heads Media and Public Relations at NiDCOM, explained that the Nigerians were visiting Cape Verde from Senegal for tourism purposes when they were stopped at the entry point.
They were reportedly singled out by immigration officers, accused of not having enough funds, and subsequently had their phones seized before being taken into custody.
Sources from within the detention centre described harsh conditions and stated that the travellers — aged 25 to 31 — were not granted legal representation or access to consular support.
One of the detainees is said to be in poor health and allegedly denied his medication.
NiDCOM’s statement urged Cape Verde’s immigration to treat the group humanely and arrange their return to Senegal, from where they can reconnect with their flight back to Nigeria.
The detained individuals have been identified as David James Udoh, Lily Dada, Oghenero Adaware, Sherifat Abimbola Ogundairo, and Jesutomi Aina.
Their trip was reportedly organized by Ìrìn Travels, a tourism company that has since voiced serious concerns over the incident.
Distressed family members have also pleaded with Nigerian authorities and global human rights bodies to act swiftly to secure the release and safety of their relatives.
NiDCOM revealed that the matter has been forwarded to Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for further diplomatic intervention.
The Commission reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding Nigerians abroad and reminded host countries to adhere to global protocols regarding the treatment of foreign nationals.
As of the time of writing, Cape Verdean officials have yet to issue a statement on the matter.