The House of Representatives has taken steps to address the urgent issue of Nigerians being held in Ethiopian prisons by summoning the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, and the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, NIDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
A Cry for Help
The motion, brought forward by Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda and others, highlighted the dire situation of 250 Nigerians currently incarcerated in Ethiopia. Many of these individuals were arrested while using Ethiopia as a transit point.
Chinda emphasized the general victimization and maltreatment of Nigerians in the East African country. He expressed concern that without immediate action, these prisoners may suffer further attacks and even face the risk of death while in custody.
United in Action
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the House of Representatives has resolved that both Tuggar and Dabiri should appear before the committees on Foreign Affairs, Diaspora, and Human Rights. These committees have been tasked with presenting reports on this matter within the next three weeks.
This move demonstrates the commitment of the Nigerian government to protecting its citizens abroad and ensuring their welfare.
