The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has expressed profound concern regarding troubling reports alleging that Nigerian girls detained in deportation camps in New Delhi, India, have endured rape, assault, and the forced administration of unidentified substances.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, September 30, signed by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, NiDCOM’s Chairman/CEO, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, vehemently denounced the reported abuses. She labeled the acts as inhumane treatment and a severe violation of the victims’ dignity and fundamental human rights.
According to distressing accounts and videos reportedly shared by some of the victims, the young Nigerian women have allegedly faced sexual violence, physical abuse, intimidation, and exploitation. NiDCOM described such acts as both heartbreaking and unacceptable.
The Commission raised concerns about further allegations of corrupt practices involving middlemen and certain groups, which reportedly exacerbate the suffering of Nigerian citizens through exploitation and extortion.
“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,” Dabiri-Erewa stated.
NiDCOM made an urgent appeal to the Indian government to take immediate action:
“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.”
Dabiri-Erewa cautioned that if confirmed, such actions not only jeopardize lives but also “undermine justice and due process.”
NiDCOM assured victims and their families that these grave reports will not be overlooked. The Commission is actively collaborating with the Nigerian High Commission in India, relevant Indian authorities, and international human rights organizations to verify the claims.
The statement emphasized that immediate measures must be implemented to protect the victims, provide them with essential medical and psychological support, and hold the perpetrators accountable.
“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 concluded, pledging to pursue the matter until justice is achieved and the dignity of every Nigerian is protected.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
