By Nkechi Eze
Thirteen Nigerians who were recently detained in Mozambique have arrived in Lagos following their deportation, marking the first batch out of the 42 citizens earlier arrested under controversial circumstances.
The returnees arrived at about 20:30hrs on March 25 aboard a South African Airways flight SA60 at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja.
Their arrival comes amid heightened concern over the arrest and detention of Nigerians in Mozambique, which had drawn strong condemnation from the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission. The Commission’s Chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, had earlier faulted the arrests, describing them as unjustified and raising concerns over reports that the individuals were singled out without formal charges.
The return of the 13 Nigerians signals a significant development in the unfolding situation, while uncertainty persists regarding the fate of the remaining detainees still in custody.
Relevant authorities are expected to carry out necessary documentation and provide support to facilitate the reintegration of the returnees into the country.
