Thirteen Nigerians have been deported from Mozambique, while 29 others remain in detention in Maputo, prompting calls for urgent diplomatic action from the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM).
According to Abdur-Rahman Balogun, NIDCOM’s director of media, the deportees were part of a group of 42 Nigerians initially detained by Mozambican authorities, who claimed the individuals lacked proper documentation.
The deportees arrived at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Friday, March 27, 2026, without any formal charges.
“These Nigerians were not fairly treated by the Mozambican authorities. We are hopeful that the minister of foreign affairs will take up this matter with his Mozambican counterpart to ensure that justice is served,” said Dipo Odebowale, NIDCOM’s representative.
The deportees reported being arrested at their workplaces despite holding valid residence permits, with only one individual having a recently expired visa.
“We were picked up from our workplaces without explanation and detained, even though we had valid documents allowing us to stay and operate in Mozambique,” one returnee said.
Another deportee appealed for swift government action, adding, “We are pleading with the Nigerian government to help secure the release of those still in custody. They have done nothing wrong.”
NIDCOM, while receiving the returnees, expressed sympathy and assured continued support in seeking justice.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, its chairman emphasised that Nigerians abroad must respect local laws but must not face punishment for offences they did not commit.
“All 13 deportees were adult males, who have now called on authorities to pursue the matter diplomatically and ensure accountability over what they described as wrongful detention and deportation,” NIDCOM added.
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