Families of over 270 Nigerians reportedly detained in Kalite Prison, Ethiopia, have cried out to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government to urgently intervene and secure the release or transfer of their loved ones, many of whom are said to be in critical condition.

The detainees, according to their relatives are held under deplorable and inhumane conditions. Among them Basil Lawrence Ilobi, Chizoba Favour Eze, and Uchenna Wanoneme. Some are said to have died in custody, while several others are battling life-threatening ailments such as kidney stones and stroke.

President-General of My Dreamalive Development Foundation, Onwuka Collins, who disclosed this in a statement issued at the weekend, said that that despite a visit by officials of the Nigerian Embassy in Ethiopia, little has been done to alleviate the inmates’ suffering.

“inadequate food which is often self-made, inadequate medical care and negligence, brutal treatment as well as extortion by prison officials.

“It is sad that, some detainees have already died due to these harsh conditions, while others are suffering from illnesses, including kidney stones and stroke. We cannot continue to watch helplessly as our brothers languish in prison without a fair trial. We, therefore, need urgent help,” he stated .

He urged President Tinubu, the Senate President, state governors, and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) to act swiftly, stressing that the situation was a “

national humanitarian crisis that required immediate attention.

The families are calling for the implementation of the Prisoner Transfer Arrangement signed between Nigeria and Ethiopia, which allows citizens convicted abroad to serve their sentences in their home country.

In addition, a Federal High Court judgment delivered by Justice Inyang Edem Ekwo on November 14, 2024, directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and NiDCOM to facilitate the return of the imprisoned Nigerians, following Ethiopia’s declaration that it has no budget for their food and welfare.

“We, therefore, call on the Nigerian government to liaise with Ethiopia and sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Exchange of Sentenced Persons, in line with existing court judgments and agreements,” “inadequate food which is often self-made, inadequate medical care and negligence, brutal treatment as well as extortion by prison officials.

“It is sad that, some detainees have already died due to these harsh conditions, while others are suffering from illnesses, including kidney stones and stroke. We cannot continue to watch helplessly as our brothers languish in prison without a fair trial. We, therefore, need urgent help.

“We cannot continue to watch helplessly as our brothers languish in prison without fair trial or proper care. Every day counts,” Collins appealed. (The Sun)

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