NIDCOM wants investigation into alleged inhumane treatment of Nigerian girls in India
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has expressed dismay over alleged inhumane treatment of Nigerian girls in India, calling for investigation into the matter.
This is contained in a statement by NiDCOM’s Director, Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun on behalf of the Chairman/CEO Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa on Tuesday in Abuja.
“The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has received with deep distress and utter dismay reports alleging the rape, assault, and forced administration of unknown substances on Nigerian girls held in deportation camps in New Delhi, India.
“According to disturbing accounts and videos shared by some of the victims, these young women are subjected to inhumane treatment and grave violations of their dignity and fundamental human rights.
“The alleged acts of sexual violence, physical abuse, and intimidation are both heartbreaking and unacceptable,” Balogun said.
He quoted Dabiri-Erewa as strongly condemning these reported abuses in the strongest possible terms saying that Nigerian citizens, wherever they were in the world, must not be treated as less than human, nor should their vulnerability be exploited under the guise of immigration procedures.
“We are further alarmed by claims that corrupt practices involving middlemen and certain groups are worsening the plight of our citizens through exploitation and extortion. If verified, such actions not only endanger lives but also undermine justice and due process.
“NiDCOM reassures the victims and their families that these disturbing reports will not be ignored. We are already engaging with the Nigerian High Commission in India, relevant Indian authorities, and international human rights organizations to ascertain the veracity of these claims and ensure that immediate and urgent steps are taken to protect the victims, provide them with medical and psychological support, and bring perpetrators to justice.
“We call on the Government of India to urgently investigate these allegations, close down any channels of exploitation, and ensure 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.
“NiDCOM will continue to follow up on this matter until justice is served, and the dignity of every Nigerian is safeguarded,” he said.
NIDCOM wants investigation into alleged inhumane treatment of Nigerian girls in India
