Prominent activist and lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has raised serious concerns over the welfare of Nigerian citizens detained in the Republic of Benin, highlighting harsh prison conditions and the lack of access to fair trial or basic legal protections.
Adeyanju disclosed that a petition was submitted to the Nigerian Senate, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Diaspora Commission, and the Nigerian Embassy in Benin, focusing on the plight of inmates at the “Civil de Adjagbo” prison in Abomey-Calavi. Reports indicate that one detainee, Salami Deyomi, died while in custody, while many others continue to endure inhumane and degrading conditions. The activist urged the Federal Government to take immediate steps to investigate the situation and engage Beninese authorities to ensure the protection of Nigerian citizens.
This development echoes previous reports of Nigerians held in foreign detention facilities under difficult conditions, where lack of oversight and limited access to legal recourse have put detainees at significant risk. Human rights advocates argue that systematic monitoring and diplomatic engagement are essential to prevent further abuse and fatalities, noting that such cases reflect a regional challenge in safeguarding citizens’ rights abroad.
Analysts have pointed out that the treatment of Nigerians in these facilities contravenes both international human rights obligations and Nigeria’s constitutional commitment to protecting its citizens. Experts stress that the government must not only intervene diplomatically but also implement mechanisms to ensure that Nigerians abroad receive fair treatment, medical attention, and due process.
The incident underscores the urgent need for sustained government action and regional cooperation to uphold human rights. Ensuring the safety, legal protection, and humane treatment of Nigerian detainees abroad remains a critical responsibility of the Nigerian state, reinforcing the broader call for accountability and adherence to international norms.
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