The Nigerian government has urgently called for the release of six Nigerian tourists who have been detained by immigration authorities in Cape Verde. According to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), the group, who had traveled from Senegal to Cape Verde for a vacation, were detained by immigration officials at the island’s airport after being accused of lacking sufficient funds for their stay.
NiDCOM issued a statement on Wednesday, detailing the events that led to the arrest of the group. Upon their arrival at the Cape Verde airport, the tourists were pulled out of the immigration line and confronted with accusations of insufficient financial resources. The situation escalated when the authorities confiscated their mobile phones, leading to their subsequent detention in an immigration deportation camp located within the airport.
The tourists, who are between the ages of 25 and 31, have been identified as David James Udoh, Lily Dada, Oghenero Adaware, Sherifat Abimbola Ogundairo, and Jesutomi Aina. Reports indicate that the group is currently experiencing distress in their confinement, with one of the detainees reportedly suffering from a medical condition. This individual has been denied access to necessary medical treatment, heightening concerns among the families of the detained tourists.
NiDCOM has called on Cape Verdean authorities to handle the matter with “respect and dignity,” urging them to facilitate the tourists’ immediate return to Senegal before they are sent back to Nigeria. The commission has also expressed concern over the welfare of the detained group, emphasizing the need for urgent intervention to ensure their safety.
The families of the detained tourists have been left deeply worried about their loved ones’ wellbeing, especially as one individual is reportedly in poor medical condition. NiDCOM stated that the issue had been officially raised with the Consular and Migration Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Nigeria. The Ministry is now expected to engage with Cape Verdean authorities in an effort to resolve the matter swiftly.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns over the treatment of Nigerian nationals abroad, particularly in countries where they may face unwarranted scrutiny or discrimination. NiDCOM, along with other Nigerian officials, has urged for fair and humane treatment of the detained individuals.
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been alerted, and efforts are already underway to engage with the Cape Verdean authorities to ensure a quick resolution to this unfortunate situation. In the meantime, NiDCOM continues to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the need for transparency and due process in the handling of Nigerian citizens abroad.
This event has raised questions about the treatment of African nationals in Cape Verde, a country often regarded as a popular travel destination for Nigerians and other African tourists. As diplomatic efforts continue, the government has made it clear that the safety and dignity of Nigerian nationals abroad will remain a priority.
In conclusion, the Nigerian government, through NiDCOM, is actively pushing for the release of the detained tourists and seeking their safe return to Nigeria. The case has highlighted the need for stronger diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and Cape Verde to ensure the fair treatment of Nigerian citizens and to address any challenges faced by Nigerians traveling abroad. NiDCOM’s call for swift action signals the country’s determination to protect its citizens, regardless of where they are in the world.
This incident underscores the importance of transparent and accountable diplomatic relationships, especially in cases where citizens’ rights and welfare are at stake. As the case unfolds, Nigeria hopes that Cape Verde will take the necessary steps to release the detained tourists promptly and restore diplomatic relations to their rightful course.