The Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, NIDCOM, Hon Abike
Dabiri-Erewa, has once again emphasized the need for an accurate and comprehensive database of Nigerians incarcerated in various prisons 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 signed by Gabriel Odu of the Media, Public Relations and Protocol Unit, NIDCOM and mage available to the media in Abuja said Dabiri-Erewa explained that efforts are underway in compiling a detailed list of Nigerians wrongfully arrested and incarcerated for crimes they did not commit.
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.
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), Barrister Justice C. Uhuegbu (Head Legal Department) and Mr Shiver Akuku (Secretary CAROPI) were part of the delegation.
Hajiya Cengis explained that many Nigerians have been victims of wrongful arrest and incarceration 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 conducive environment for justice and equity for all.
