The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has urgently requested the release of six Nigerian citizens detained by Cape Verdean immigration authorities at a deportation facility in the country.
In a statement released on Wednesday, April 16, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Head of Media and Public Relations at NiDCOM, explained that the Nigerians were visiting Cape Verde from Senegal for tourism when they were detained at the entry point. The travelers were allegedly targeted by immigration officers, accused of lacking sufficient funds, and their phones were confiscated before being placed in custody.
Inside sources from the detention center have described the conditions as harsh, with reports indicating that the detained individuals—ranging in age from 25 to 31—were not provided legal representation or consular support. One of the detainees is said to be in poor health and allegedly denied necessary medication.
NiDCOM has called on Cape Verde’s immigration authorities to treat the group with dignity and expedite their return to Senegal, where they can board 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. The group’s trip was organized by Ìrìn Travels, a tourism company that has raised significant concerns regarding the incident.
Family members of the detainees are also urging Nigerian authorities and international human rights organizations to take swift action to ensure the safety and release of their relatives.
NiDCOM confirmed that the case has been forwarded to Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for further diplomatic intervention. The Commission reiterated its commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad and reminded host countries to adhere to international standards for the treatment of foreign nationals.
As of now, Cape Verdean officials have not issued a statement regarding the situation.
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