UAE Deports 400 Nigerians Amidst Allegations of Unjust Treatment
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has deported 400 Nigerians back to their home country. The deportees arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, where they were received by officials from the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI).
Katherine Udida, the Director of Migration Affairs at the Commission, disclosed that the return was facilitated in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser. Udida noted that, in line with its mandate, the Commission is providing psychosocial support and a reintegration program for the returnees.
Udida also revealed that the Commission is working with relevant agencies and the UAE government to investigate cases of alleged maltreatment and unjust deportation to ensure justice for deserving citizens. “Usually, what we do is listen to these Nigerians when they are brought back, and where necessary, we facilitate pro-bono services for them to return. Now, we’ll have to look at each case and see if they have a permit. If they do, it’s within their rights to ensure that they return,” she explained.
Among the returnees, Harrison Amaoguo recounted his experience of being unjustly deported, with all his valuables seized by UAE authorities. He called on the Nigerian government to use diplomatic channels to protect the rights of its citizens abroad. “My story is that I don’t know what my offense is. Some officers stopped me, asked me to introduce myself, and when I did and told them my nationality, they took me away. I kept asking, but no one told me why,” he said.
Amaoguo expressed concern over the Nigerian Consulate in Dubai, urging them to question the information provided to them by UAE authorities and seek clarity from their citizens.
The group of returnees includes 90 female adults and 310 male adults. The Commission emphasized its commitment to supporting those affected and ensuring their reintegration into society while working to uphold their rights.
