The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has expressed dismay over the inhuman treatment of Nigerian girls in India, calling for an immediate probe into the situation by authorities.
A statement by the spokesman of the organisation, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, on Tuesday, said NiDCOM ‘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 Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, strongly condemned these reported abuses in the strongest possible terms, insisting that ‘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.’
‘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.’
While reassuring the victims and their families that these disturbing reports will not be ignored, NiDCOM said it was already engaging with the Nigerian High Commission in India, relevant Indian authorities, and international human rights organisations 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,’ the statement said.