The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has raised serious concerns over disturbing allegations of rape, assault and forced drugging of Nigerian girls reportedly held in deportation camps in New Delhi, India.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, NiDCOM’s Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, the Commission described the reports as “heartbreaking and unacceptable,” citing circulating videos and testimonies from victims that point to grave violations of human dignity and fundamental rights.
NiDCOM Stance
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NiDCOM, condemned the alleged abuses in strong terms, insisting that Nigerian citizens, regardless of their location, must never be treated “as less than human” under immigration control procedures.
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“The alleged acts of sexual violence, physical abuse, and intimidation are both heartbreaking and unacceptable. Nigerian citizens, wherever they are in the world, must not be treated as less than human, nor should their vulnerability be exploited under immigration procedures,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
The Commission also expressed worry that corrupt middlemen and organized groups may be compounding the plight of detainees through exploitation and extortion, warning that such practices, if confirmed, would undermine justice and put lives at risk.
Plan of Action
NiDCOM disclosed that it is working closely with the Nigerian High Commission in India, relevant Indian authorities and international human rights bodies to verify the claims, provide medical and psychological support to affected persons, and ensure that perpetrators face justice.
Calling on the Indian government to urgently investigate the allegations, the Commission urged authorities to dismantle exploitative networks and guarantee the safety and dignity of Nigerians within India’s borders.
“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,” the statement added.
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NiDCOM assured families of the victims that the Commission will continue to monitor developments closely and pursue justice until the dignity of every Nigerian affected is restored.
