Protecting Nigerians Living Abroad: An Urgent Need for Diplomatic Action
The heightened violence against Nigerians abroad, exemplified by the recent murder of artist Destiny in Ghana, exposes significant gaps in Nigeria’s foreign policy. Approximately 300 Nigerians have faced extrajudicial killings overseas since 2016, particularly in South Africa. Reports also show a severe lack of urgency in protecting citizens and seeking justice for them. Amid rising violence, the government must prioritize the safety of its diaspora, enhance diplomatic efforts, and address the causes of emigration.
The growing trend of harassment and violence against Nigerians living abroad starkly highlights major flaws in Nigeria’s foreign policy. The tragic killing of Destiny, an 18-year-old talented artist from Edo State, in Ghana’s Volta Region underscores this alarming issue. He was allegedly murdered by other Nigerians after being accused of failing to send money from a shared business endeavor. A gang reportedly broke into his apartment, leading to this horrific outcome.
From 2016 to 2023, around 300 Nigerians have reportedly been killed extrajudicially outside their country, as per reports from The PUNCH. South Africa stands out as a particularly hazardous place for Nigerians, where xenophobic violence has claimed over 200 lives. Elizabeth Ndubuisi-Chukwu, who served as deputy director-general of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria, was also found dead under suspicious circumstances in Johannesburg back in June 2019 while attending a conference.
In summary, the alarming violence against Nigerians abroad calls for urgent action from the government. With significant contributions to the economy through remittances, these citizens deserve protection and justice. The absence of newly appointed ambassadors and the neglect of local Nigerian embassies exacerbate the sense of insecurity felt by expatriates. Addressing the root causes of mass migration and improving conditions back home might deter future tragedies. Ultimately, prioritizing citizen safety is a pressing responsibility for the government, which must weave this into the fabric of its foreign policy.
Original Source: punchng.com
