The Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, NIDCOM, Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa
says efforts are underway to Compile a comprehensive list of Nigerians arrested and incarcerated for crimes they did not commit, globally.
The NIDCOM Boss disclosed this at a closed door meeting with members of the Counselling and Rehabilitation of Prisoners Initiative (CAROPI), a Non Governmental Organisation in Abuja.
A statement by Gabriel Odu ,Of NIDCOM’s press and public relations unit says Dabiri-Erewa further disclosed that the Commission has been to several countries such as Brazil, South-Africa, Togo and Benin Republic to facilitate the release of some Nigerians wrongfully arrested and incarcerated. She highlighted a situation in Brazil where a 74 year old Woman was wrongfully arrested and the Commission was able to effect her release but she died afterwards.
According to Odu, the NIDCOM Boss stated that as Nigerians travel out of their home country they should avoid committing crimes or participating in criminality. She welcomed the CAROPI Team and assured them of collaborative partnerships with NIDCOM.
The President of the NGO Dr Hajiya Rabia Y.H.Cengis among other members which include Mrs Victoria Kuwua Nor-Ugor (Head Medical Department), Barr Justice C. Uhuegbu (Head Legal Department) and Mr Shiver Akuku (Secretary CAROPI).
Hajiya Rabia explained that many Nigerians have been victims of wrongful arrest and iincarceration in many of the countries she has travelled to, noting that this must be addressed forthwith. Other members of the team expressed optimism for a robust working relationship with NIDCOM in areas of legal assistance, reintegration and rehabilitation and a conducive environment for justice and equity for all.
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