Abike Dabiri

Nigerians from the Expatriate Commission (NIDCOM) call on Cape Verde authorities to release six Nigerian tourists currently held at the U.S. immigration deportation factory.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, April 16, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, director of media, public relations and agreements at NIDCOM, revealed that tourists allegedly travelled from Senegal to Cape Verde, allegedly at the entry point, were withdrawn from the immigration line and did not have enough entertainment. Their cell phones were reportedly confiscated before being detained.

According to the detention center, Nigerians (25 to 31 years old) are under painful conditions without access to legal or consular assistance. One of the people reportedly suffered from a medical condition and was denied his medication.

“We call on the immigration authorities in Cape Verde to treat tourists with respect and dignity and to take them on their next return flight to Dakar to return to Nigeria,” the statement said.

The detailed persons were identified as: David James Udoh, Lily Dada, Oggenous Adara, Sheriphat Abimbola Ogundairoo and Jeshutomi Aina.

The organization reportedly booked a trip to the Travel and Tourism Bureau “RìnTravels”, which has since raised concerns about the treatment of travelers.

Family members expressed deep concern about the safety and well-being of their loved ones and urged the Nigerian government and international human rights organizations to intervene urgently.

NIDCOM confirmed that the issue has been escalated to the Consular Bureau of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for further diplomatic participation.

NIDCOM reiterates its commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad and calls on host countries to respect the convention on treating visitors and immigrants internationally.

As of this report, Cape Verde immigration authorities have not responded to the allegations or clarified the status of tourists.