The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has dismissed circulating images on social media that claim to show three Nigerian pilgrims recently released by Saudi authorities, stating that the photos are of unrelated individuals.
In a statement on Thursday, 18th September 2025, Femi Babafemi, Director of Media and Advocacy at NDLEA, said some media outlets had mistakenly published photographs that were not connected to the released Nigerians. The agency confirmed that it had not issued any official images of the pilgrims, citing the need to protect their privacy, dignity, and human rights.
The NDLEA explained that this decision aligns with international human rights standards and aims to shield the freed pilgrims from public stigma, enabling their reintegration into society without prejudice.
Babafemi further appealed to media organizations to avoid using misleading images that could distort facts or compromise the reputation of innocent individuals. While recognizing the media’s critical role in public information, he stressed that ethical reporting is vital, especially when handling sensitive cases involving human rights and personal safety.
This clarification by the NDLEA highlights the importance of balancing public interest with individual rights, underscoring the need for responsible journalism in today’s fast-paced information environment.
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