NIDCOM CONDEMNS ALLEGED ABUSE OF NIGERIAN GIRLS IN INDIAN DEPORTATION CAMPS

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has expressed outrage over disturbing reports alleging the rape, assault, and forced administration of unidentified substances on Nigerian girls detained in deportation camps in New Delhi, India.

According to videos and testimonies shared by some of the victims, the young women are said to have been subjected to inhumane treatment and gross violations of their dignity and human rights. The allegations include sexual violence, physical abuse, intimidation, and extortion.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by its Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, NiDCOM Chairman/CEO Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa strongly condemned the reported abuses, describing them as “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 the guise of immigration procedures,” Dabiri-Erewa said.

NiDCOM also raised concerns about claims of corrupt practices involving middlemen and certain groups accused of worsening the plight of detainees through exploitation and extortion.

The Commission assured victims and their families that the reports would not be ignored, adding that it is already engaging with the Nigerian High Commission in India, relevant Indian authorities, and international human rights organizations. The aim, according to NiDCOM, is to verify the claims, protect the victims, provide them with medical and psychological support, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.

NiDCOM called on the Indian government to urgently investigate the allegations, dismantle any exploitative networks, and guarantee the safety and dignity of Nigerians within its 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 read.

The Commission pledged to follow up on the matter until justice is served and the dignity of every Nigerian abroad is safeguarded.