The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has voiced its deep distress over disturbing reports alleging that Nigerian girls held in deportation camps in New Delhi, India, have been subjected to rape, assault, and the forced administration of unknown substances.
In a press statement signed on Tuesday, September 3O by the Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, strongly condemned the reported abuses. She described the acts as inhumane treatment and a grave violation of the victims’ dignity and fundamental human rights.
According to disturbing accounts and videos reportedly shared by some of the victims, the young Nigerian women have allegedly been subjected to sexual violence, physical abuse, intimidation, and exploitation. NiDCOM branded such acts as both heartbreaking and unacceptable.
The Commission expressed alarm over additional claims of corrupt practices involving middlemen and certain groups, which reportedly worsen the plight of Nigerian citizens through exploitation and extortion.
“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 stated.
NiDCOM issued a direct appeal to the Indian government to intervene immediately:
“We call on the Government of India to urgently investigate these allegations, close down any channels of exploitation, and ensure the safety and dignity of Nigerians within its borders.”
Dabiri-Erewa warned that if verified, such actions not only endanger lives but also “undermine justice and due process.”
NiDCOM reassured victims and their families that these serious reports will not be ignored. The Commission is already engaging with the Nigerian High Commission in India, relevant Indian authorities, and international human rights organizations to ascertain the veracity of the claims.
The statement stressed that urgent steps must be taken to protect the victims, provide them with necessary medical and psychological support, and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“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,” Dabiri-Erewa concluded, promising to follow up on the matter until justice is served and the dignity of every Nigerian is safeguarded.
