The House of Representatives has urged the Executive Arm of government to intervene and secure the release of Nigerians being detained outside the country illegally.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion on the need to ascertain the number of Nigerian citizens being detained in foreign Prisons.
The sponsor of the motion Mr. Dennis Idahosa from Edo State expressed concern over reports of Nigerians languishing in foreign prisons, some of whom were illegally destined
Mr. Idahosa stated that over 16,500 Nigerians in prisons abroad were convicted without legal representation, stressing the need for the government to intervene to protect their rights.
“Aware that International Conventions and Treaties prescribe that anyone charged with a criminal offence is entitled to a fair hearing within a reasonable time by an independent and impartial tribunal established by law.
Concerned about reports that many Nigerians are languishing in foreign prisons, some of whom are being illegally detained, while some are exposed to labour exploitation, poor living conditions, discrimination, sex exploitation, and other forms of dehumanizing treatments.” Mr. Idahosa argued.
While adopting the motion, the House mandated its Committees on Foreign Affairs, Justice and Inter-Parliamentary Relations to ensure compliance.
Dominica Nwabufo
