NiDCOM URGES NIGERIANS IN FRANCE TO OBEY LAWS, AVOID PROVOCATION

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By: Fasasi Hammad

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has urged Nigerians living in France to remain calm, maintain peace and comply with the laws of their host country amid concerns over unrest affecting communities across the country.

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NiDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, made the appeal in a statement issued on Thursday by the commission’s Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun.

Dabiri-Erewa called on Nigerians to exercise restraint, avoid confrontations and cooperate peacefully with lawful directives from French authorities.

She urged members of the Nigerian community to avoid violence, provocation and any actions capable of escalating tensions, while conducting themselves responsibly and maintaining public order.

The NiDCOM chief also advised Nigerians to rely on verified safety information and refrain from spreading rumours or unconfirmed reports, particularly on social media.

She further encouraged Nigerians to respect their neighbours and other communities, regardless of nationality, religion or background.

Dabiri-Erewa stressed that Nigerians living abroad had a shared responsibility to protect the country’s image while respecting the laws and institutions of their host nations.

“Nigerians in the Diaspora are ambassadors of their country and have a shared responsibility to uphold Nigeria’s image while respecting the laws and institutions of their host country,” she said.

She also advised Nigerians whose safety or rights might be threatened to seek appropriate legal assistance and contact relevant emergency or consular services.

The commission called on Nigerian community leaders, families, students, professionals and associations across France to promote peace, unity and responsible behaviour.

The appeal comes amid protests in France over issues including the rising cost of living, public services and working conditions.

Demonstrations in major cities have attracted people from different sections of society, with some gatherings reportedly resulting in clashes with security forces.

The unrest has raised concerns about public safety and order, prompting calls for restraint and peaceful conduct.

French authorities deployed 70,000 police officers nationwide ahead of protests on October 24, following violence during earlier demonstrations. Officials also reported arrests and injuries during the unrest.

NiDCOM reiterated its call on Nigerians in France to shun violence, follow verified safety advisories and comply with lawful instructions from French authorities.

The commission also urged community leaders to work together to sustain calm, promote caution and maintain order within their respective communities.

It reaffirmed the importance of peaceful coexistence and adherence to the laws of France.