The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has launched a thorough investigation into the alleged unlawful detention of Abdul Olatunji, a Nigerian citizen reportedly held in South Africa since 2019 without trial.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols for NiDCOM, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice.
Olatunji’s family has accused South African authorities of fabricating charges to justify his prolonged incarceration. They have urgently appealed to the Nigerian government for intervention.
NiDCOM disclosed that it had engaged the acting Nigerian High Commissioner in South Africa, who has since contacted South African authorities for clarity.
“This case was not previously reported to NiDCOM or the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa,” the agency noted. “Nonetheless, we are collaborating with the Nigerian Mission in South Africa to conduct a comprehensive investigation and ensure justice is served.”
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Women’s Association in South Africa has extended its support, announcing plans for a prison visit to assess Olatunji’s situation. Elizabeth Johnson, the group’s president, informed NiDCOM that they had reached out to Olatunji following media reports and were arranging a visitation soon.
NiDCOM Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa has also spoken with Olatunji’s family, pledging the Federal Government’s full commitment to addressing the matter.
The Commission assured Nigerians that justice, fairness, and due process would guide the ongoing investigation.
