The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has confirmed the deportation of 40 out of 42 Nigerians who were arrested and detained for weeks in Mozambique, describing the process as a violation of their fundamental human rights.
Papers News understands that the deportees were returned to Nigeria in three batches amid growing concerns over their treatment in the Southern African country.
According to the commission, the affected Nigerians arrived in the country in batches of 13, 16, and 11 on March 24, 26, and 27, respectively, aboard South African Airways flight SA60 and Ethiopian Airlines.
Two of the arrested Nigerians, however, remain in Mozambique due to special circumstances.
‘Process Did Not Follow Due Procedure’
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the commission’s spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, described the deportation as inhuman.
He stated that the affected Nigerians were randomly arrested, detained, and deported despite possessing valid documentation.
While Mozambican authorities reportedly cited immigration issues, documents presented by the deportees suggested otherwise.
Some of the returnees, who were received by NIDCOM officials in Lagos, alleged that their money and other valuables were not returned upon deportation.
They further claimed that large sums were withdrawn from their mobile applications while they were in detention.
The commission also expressed concern that Mozambican authorities allegedly failed to notify the Nigerian Embassy during the arrests and detention.
It added that attempts by embassy officials to intervene were reportedly rebuffed.
The 42 Nigerians were said to have been arrested at their various business locations despite holding valid residency permits.
Some of them maintained that the arrests were carried out without prior notice and that they had complied with all legal requirements to live and work in Mozambique.
They also claimed they were detained for several days before being processed for deportation.
Of the two Nigerians yet to be deported, one is married to a Mozambican citizen, while the other was born in the country.
Dabiri-Erewa Calls For Calm In South Africa
Meanwhile, the Chairman/CEO of NIDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has urged Nigerians residing in South Africa to remain calm following reports of violence against some citizens during a cultural festival.
She described the incident as likely stemming from “misconception and misinterpretation,” noting that the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa was already investigating the matter.
Dabiri-Erewa appealed for restraint on all sides, assuring that appropriate steps would be taken once investigations are concluded.
As of the time of filing this report, Mozambican authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the deportation.
The development is expected to raise fresh concerns about the treatment of foreign nationals and the enforcement of immigration laws in the country.
