By Charles Pemu 
Nigerian nationals residing in India have raised serious allegations of police brutality, extortion, and systemic abuse, with many pleading for urgent assistance from the Nigerian government to help them return home.
Speaking anonymously to Vanguard, one Nigerian shared harrowing details of daily mistreatment by Indian authorities, alleging that police officers routinely confiscate phones, demand bribes, and, in cases of non-compliance, plant drugs or force detainment.
“What we Nigerians are facing right here in India is terrible,” he said. “If you don’t pay them, they send you to jail or dump you in a deportation camp. Some Nigerians even collaborate with them to extort money from us.”
Protests have reportedly been staged at the Nigerian Embassy in New Delhi, but the migrants claim little to no support has come from diplomatic officials. “Our embassy is doing nothing about this issue,” the source said. “That’s why it keeps getting worse.”
A Death Shrouded in Mystery
The disturbing story of a Nigerian named Peter Ugbekile, son of the late Chief Felix Ugbekile, underscores the risks migrants face. Peter, popularly known as Pino Pino, was allegedly beaten to death under unclear circumstances.
“He was killed on Tuesday, June 10. His head was bleeding, and bruises were visible on his back. The police have refused to release CCTV footage, and no arrests have been made,” the witness said. “Instead, they arrested 12 Nigerians after the incident.”
Life in Deportation Camps
Conditions in India’s deportation facilities were also described as inhumane. According to the witness, overcrowding, sickness, and extortion are rampant.
“If they really wanted us to leave, they would reduce the fines for overstaying,” he said. “Instead, people are dying in those camps—boys, girls, even children.”
He also shared his personal ordeal, revealing he paid over one lakh rupees (approximately ₦2 million) to avoid imprisonment, after selling land in Nigeria to afford his freedom.
“I’ve been arrested multiple times, and I’ve paid four times. I have nothing left. I want to go home, but I can’t afford the overstay fine,” he said. “I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy.”
Government Reaction and Official Response
Responding to the claims, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, confirmed that the High Commission in India is aware of Peter Ugbekile’s death and is working with community leaders and Indian authorities to investigate the matter.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) also commented, with Media Director Abdulrahman Balogun stating no new official complaint had been lodged with the agency. “However, we are aware of similar past cases, and we assure Nigerians that thorough investigations will be conducted.”
He reiterated the federal government’s stance: “Nigeria will not tolerate the unjust treatment of any of its citizens abroad. But we also urge Nigerians to conduct themselves properly wherever they reside.”
Deportation Figures and Legal Options
Data from India’s Union Home Ministry shows that of the 2,331 foreigners deported from India between April 2023 and March 2024, 1,470 were Nigerians, making them the most deported nationality in that period.
While the Nigerian government can offer emergency travel documents and advocate for waivers, migrants must still apply for Exit Permits through India’s Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). Overstay fines range from ₹5,000 to over ₹50,000 depending on the duration.
Without proper documentation, many Nigerians face arrest, prolonged detainment, or worse. Authorities urge affected citizens to contact the FRRO or the Nigerian High Commission immediately for assistance and avoid further complications.
A Humanitarian Crisis in the Making
As more Nigerians in India face threats to their safety, dignity, and freedom, the call for urgent diplomatic intervention grows louder. With lives reportedly at risk and basic human rights under threat, this developing crisis demands swift, coordinated action from the Nigerian government and its international partners.