The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has urged Cape Verdean authorities to free six Nigerian tourists and ensure their safe return home. NiDCOM chairman Abike Dabiri‑Erewa made the appeal through a statement by Director of Media Abdur‑Rahman Balogun.
NiDCOM said the group of six, aged 25 to 31, traveled from Senegal to Cape Verde on holiday. The tourists faced detention upon arrival for allegedly lacking sufficient funds.
The tourists—identified as David James Udoh, Lily Dada, Oghenero Adaware, Sherifat Abimbola Ogundairo, and Jesutomi Aina—had their phones seized and were taken to an immigration camp.
One detainee suffers a medical condition and has been denied essential medication, NiDCOM warned. The commission called on Cape Verde’s immigration service to treat the tourists with dignity.
“We appeal to the immigration authorities to release the tourists immediately and put them on the next flight to Dakar,” the statement read.
NiDCOM noted that the tourists organized their trip through Irin Travels, using handles @irintravels and @theFARAWAY_. The travel agent arranged flights and lodging in advance.
The Commission has alerted Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Consular and Migration Directorate for urgent diplomatic intervention.
Family members said they fear for their loved ones’ safety and wellbeing. They described the detention as “devastating” and “traumatic” for all involved.
NiDCOM vowed to follow up on consular efforts until the tourists return safely to Nigeria. The commission will liaise with Cape Verdean authorities and international bodies as needed.
The case underscores broader concerns over tourist rights and treatment abroad. NiDCOM pledged to protect Nigerians traveling and living overseas.
