The Federal Government of Nigeria has successfully secured the release of six Nigerian women who were wrongfully detained in Cape Verde on unfounded allegations of human trafficking.
Their release was confirmed on Thursday, April 17, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), shortly after the women departed the island nation.
According to a statement issued by the Foreign Ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the Nigerian diplomatic mission in Guinea-Bissau played a critical role by engaging Cape Verdean authorities to facilitate the release and safe return of the women.
The statement clarified that the six Nigerian nationals had travelled to Cape Verde for a holiday trip but were mistakenly profiled and accused of human trafficking—allegations that were later found to be false.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to happily inform you that the Nigerian nationals, ladies, who were detained in Cape Verde have all been released and have left the country,” the statement read. “The ministry engaged Cape Verde authorities via our Mission in Guinea-Bissau to secure their release. The six ladies travelled to Cape Verde for a holiday and were unfortunately detained on allegations of trafficking, which turned out to be false.”
Background and Public Outcry
The detention of the six women drew public attention following a social media alert by an X user, @Tobiojenike, who alleged that the detainees were being held in a small room, denied access to legal representation, and subjected to abuse by local police officers. The post also claimed that attempts were being made to deport them and falsely accuse them through coercion.
Responding to the allegations, NIDCOM issued a statement appealing to Cape Verdean authorities to treat the women with dignity and return them to Nigeria. It was revealed that their mobile phones had been confiscated, they were accused of lacking sufficient funds, and were being held at an immigration deportation facility under harsh conditions. One of them was reportedly denied access to essential medication.
In an April 16 statement signed by NIDCOM’s Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the Commission identified the detained individuals as David James Udoh, Lily Dada, Oghenero Adaware, Sherifat Abimbola Ogundairo, and Jesutomi Aina. It also revealed that the group had travelled from Senegal to Cape Verde via a travel agency, Ìrìn Travels (@irintravels) and @theFARAWAY.
Following growing concerns and diplomatic escalation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its consular and migration directorate intervened, leading to the successful resolution of the matter.
The ministry has reiterated its commitment to the protection of all Nigerian citizens abroad and appreciated the cooperation of the Cape Verdean government in resolving the issue amicably.
