The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has confirmed the deportation of 40 out of 42 Nigerians who were arrested and detained for weeks in Mozambique.

The deportees arrived in Nigeria in three batches of 13, 16, and 11, respectively, aboard South African Airways flight SA60 and Ethiopian Airlines flights on March 24, 26, and 27. Two individuals remain in Mozambique.

NIDCOM stated that the deportation process did not follow due process.

In a statement, the Commission’s spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, described the development as inhumane and a violation of the deportees’ fundamental human rights. He noted that the individuals were allegedly arrested, detained, and deported despite possessing valid documentation.

Mozambican authorities, however, reportedly described the action as part of routine immigration enforcement operations in the capital, Maputo.

According to the Commission, of the two Nigerians still in Mozambique, one is married to a Mozambican citizen, while the other was born in the country.

It was also alleged that money confiscated from the detainees during their detention was not returned upon deportation, while additional funds were reportedly withdrawn from their mobile applications.

NIDCOM expressed concern that Nigerian diplomatic representatives were not engaged during the process, noting that attempts by officials of the Nigerian Embassy to intervene were reportedly rebuffed by Mozambican authorities.

The Commission recalled that the 42 Nigerians were arrested at their various business locations, despite claims that they possessed valid residency permits. Some of the affected individuals alleged that the arrests were carried out without prior notice and that they had complied with all legal requirements to live and work in Mozambique.

They further claimed they were detained for several days before being processed for deportation.

While Mozambican authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the incident, the development is expected to raise fresh concerns about the treatment of foreign nationals and the enforcement of immigration regulations in the country. (Guardian)