NIDCOM cries out over alleged rape, maltreatment of Nigerian girls in India

Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has condemned alleged rape, assault, and forced administration of unknown substances on Nigerian girls held in deportation camps in New Delhi, India.

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) said this in a statement issued on her behalf on Tuesday by the Director Media, Public Relations and Protocols of the Commission, Abdur-Rahman Balogun,

The NIDCOM boss in the statement said disturbing accounts and videos shared by some of the victims showed that the Nigerian girls were 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,” Dabiri-Erewa said in the statement while condemning the reported abuses in the strongest possible terms.

She added 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.

“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,” the Commission said in the statement