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The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has decried reports of rape, assault, and forced drugging of Nigerian girls allegedly held in deportation camps in New Delhi, India.
In a statement on Tuesday signed by its Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the Chairman/CEO of the Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described the reports as disturbing and a gross violation of human rights.
According to NiDCOM, videos and testimonies from some victims revealed that the young women were subjected to sexual violence, physical abuse, intimidation, and extortion by individuals exploiting their immigration status.
She said, “Nigerian citizens, wherever they are in the world, must not be treated as less than human, nor should their vulnerability be exploited under the guise of immigration procedures.
“We call on the Government of India to urgently investigate these allegations, close down any channels of exploitation, and ensure the safety and dignity of Nigerians within its borders.
“If verified, such actions not only endanger lives but also undermine justice and due process.”
The Commission assured that the matter would not be swept under the carpet, stressing that it was already working with the Nigerian High Commission in India, relevant Indian agencies, and global human rights groups to establish the facts.
It urged that victims be given medical and psychological support while those found culpable face justice.
“Our hearts go out to the young women and men enduring such traumatic experiences. We stand in solidarity with them and affirm that Nigeria will never abandon its citizens in their time of need,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
NiDCOM vowed to pursue the matter until justice is served and the dignity of Nigerians abroad is safeguarded.