Hundreds of Nigerian nationals being held in a deportation facility in New Delhi, India, have appealed to the Federal Government for urgent assistance, alleging prolonged detention and inadequate support from Nigerian authorities despite efforts to return home.
Several detainees claimed they have remained in the camp for months and, in some cases, years after being apprehended by Indian immigration officials over expired travel documents and other immigration-related issues.
One of the detainees, identified as Onyeka, said many Nigerians in the facility had already secured emergency travel certificates and paid for flight tickets but were yet to be allowed to leave India.
According to him, repeated attempts to seek assistance from Nigerian officials in India have not produced the desired results, leaving many stranded and frustrated.
He explained that several detainees had complied with the requirements set by Indian authorities, including paying for their return flights, but remained confined in the deportation camp without clear explanations for the delays.
Related News:
Train Crash Into School Bus Leaves Several Dead in Belgium
Four Nigerians Arrested In India Over Alleged Social Media Fraud, Impersonation
Fake NDLEA Operatives Arrested in Abia After Viral Assault on Tricycle Rider
Onyeka further alleged that while embassies of other countries regularly visit and assist their detained citizens, Nigerian officials have yet to provide similar support.
He noted that some detainees have spent more than a year in the facility, while others have reportedly remained there for several years awaiting deportation clearance.
Another detainee alleged that some individuals continue to face demands for additional payments despite having settled official fees and travel costs. He also claimed that detainees experience harassment and uncertainty over their fate.
A second victim, identified as Arinze, described conditions in the camp as difficult and said the prolonged detention has negatively affected the mental well-being of several occupants.
According to him, more than 500 Nigerians may currently be held at the facility, with many struggling financially after spending large sums to secure travel documents and flight bookings.
He claimed that some detainees sold personal assets in Nigeria to fund their return journey but were still unable to obtain final clearance to leave the country.
Arinze also alleged that although many detainees had followed immigration procedures and obtained the necessary documentation, several were repeatedly prevented from departing despite booking flights.
The detainees appealed to the Nigerian government, the Nigerian High Commission in India, and relevant authorities to intervene urgently and facilitate their repatriation.
They said many of those affected are facing financial hardship, emotional distress, and uncertainty about their future, stressing the need for swift action to resolve their situation and enable them to return home.
About The Author
