Abuja, September 30, 2025: Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has strongly condemned the reported inhuman treatment of Nigerian girls in India.
The NiDCOM boss, in a press statement by the Director Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, said the commission received with deep distress and utter dismay reports alleging the rape, assault, and forced administration of unknown substances on Nigerian girls held in deportation camps in New Delhi, India.
“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,’’ Dabiri-Erewa said.
She noted that according to disturbing accounts and videos shared by some of the victims, the young women were subjected to inhuman treatment and grave violations of their dignity and fundamental human rights.
According to her, the alleged acts of sexual violence, physical abuse, and intimidation are both heartbreaking and unacceptable.
“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 the 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 verify the authenticity 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 the perpetrators to justice,’’ Dabiri-Erewa added.
The commission, however, called on the Government of India to urgently investigate the 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.’’
