The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) criticised the deportation of 40 Nigerians, stating that the exercise did not follow established legal and diplomatic procedures. The affected individuals were reportedly returned to Nigeria in three batches—13, 16, and 11 persons—on March 24, 26, and 27 via South African Airways and Ethiopian Airlines. Two others are said to remain in Mozambique.
Allegations of Rights Violations
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the Commission described the deportation process as a breach of the fundamental rights of the individuals involved.
According to NIDCOM, the Nigerians were allegedly arrested at their business premises in Maputo without prior notice, despite reportedly holding valid residency documentation. The Commission further disclosed that the detainees were held for several weeks before being deported, without proper engagement with Nigerian diplomatic officials.
The agency noted that attempts by the Nigerian Embassy to gain access to the detained individuals were unsuccessful, with Mozambican authorities reportedly denying consular contact throughout the period of detention.
Concerns Over Seized Funds
Beyond procedural concerns, NIDCOM also raised alarm over reports that money confiscated from the deportees during detention was not returned. Some of the affected individuals additionally alleged that funds were withdrawn from their mobile applications while in custody.
The Commission stressed that such actions, if verified, would constitute serious breaches of both legal and human rights protections.
Mozambique Cites Immigration Enforcement
Mozambican authorities have reportedly maintained that the arrests were part of routine immigration enforcement operations. However, NIDCOM insists that such actions must be carried out in line with international norms, including respect for due process and the rights of foreign nationals.
The Commission also highlighted that all 42 Nigerians were apprehended at different business locations, despite claims that they had complied with local legal requirements to live and work in Mozambique.
Two Nigerians Remain in Custody
Of the two individuals still in Mozambique, one is married to a Mozambican citizen, while the other was born in the country—factors that could further complicate their legal status and potential deportation.
As of the time of reporting, authorities in Mozambique had not issued an official public response to the allegations, a development likely to intensify scrutiny over the handling of the मामला and broader concerns about the treatment of foreign nationals.