The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has expressed profound concern following alarming reports that Nigerian girls detained in deportation facilities in New Delhi, India, have been victims of sexual assault, physical violence, and forced administration of unidentified substances.
In an official release dated Tuesday, September 30, issued by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, NiDCOM’s Chairman and CEO, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, vehemently denounced these reported violations. She characterized the incidents as cruel mistreatment and a severe breach of the victims’ inherent human rights and dignity.
Eyewitness accounts and video evidence allegedly shared by some of the affected young Nigerian women reveal harrowing experiences of sexual violence, intimidation, and exploitation. NiDCOM described these acts as profoundly distressing and utterly intolerable.
The Commission also raised serious concerns about reports implicating corrupt intermediaries and certain factions who are said to exacerbate the suffering of Nigerian nationals through extortion and manipulation.
“Nigerian citizens, regardless of their location worldwide, deserve to be treated with respect and humanity. Their vulnerabilities must never be exploited under the pretext of immigration enforcement,” Dabiri-Erewa emphasized.
NiDCOM has urgently called on Indian authorities to take immediate action:
“We urge the Government of India to promptly investigate these allegations, dismantle any exploitative networks, and guarantee the protection and respect of Nigerians within its jurisdiction.”
Dabiri-Erewa warned that if these claims are substantiated, such conduct not only jeopardizes lives but also erodes the principles of justice and due process.
The Commission assured victims and their relatives that these grave allegations are being taken seriously. NiDCOM is actively collaborating with the Nigerian High Commission in India, relevant Indian officials, and international human rights bodies to verify the facts.
The statement underscored the necessity for swift measures to safeguard the victims, provide comprehensive medical and psychological care, and hold the offenders accountable.
“Our thoughts are with the young women and men enduring these traumatic ordeals. We stand firmly with them and reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to never forsake its citizens in moments of hardship,” Dabiri-Erewa concluded, pledging persistent follow-up until justice prevails and the honor of every Nigerian is upheld.
0 Comments