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Marking non-violence day: Nigeria’s ongoing quest for peace

Bankole ABE
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Marking non-violence day: Nigeria’s ongoing quest for peace

AS the world marks the International Day of Non-Violence on October 2, Nigeria finds itself at a crossroads as violence continues to plague the West African nation.

The International Day of Non-Violence was set aside by the United Nations in 2007 to honour former Indian leader, Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday. However, it is not just about remembering the Indian leader’s ideas, but also about confronting the modern challenges of violence and intolerance that threaten societies across the globe.

In Nigeria, the day resonates with Nigeria’s numerous conflict problems. From insurgency in the North-East to farmer-herder conflicts in the north central, separatist agitations in the South-East, banditry in the North-West, and rising political thuggery and kidnappings in the southwest, violence continues to define much of the country’s public life.

A country under siege

Various reports by The ICIR on insecurity highlight how violent conflicts have displaced millions and eroded public trust in state institutions. Communities in Benue, Plateau, Zamfara, and Borno live in daily fear of attacks, while schools across the North have been shut down due to recurring abductions.

Experts argue that this crisis is not just about the failure of security forces but also about the absence of a culture of tolerance and peaceful conflict resolution.

The ICIR report in 2024 states that, despite promises of security and peace, about 703 persons were abducted in 8 days under Bola Tinubu.

Also commenting on violence in Nigeria, Amnesty International (AI) said more than 400 displaced people in Borno state were abducted.

The organisation said on March 3, 2024, suspected Boko Haram fighters abducted at least 400 Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) – most of them women and children – from Babban Sansani, Zulum, and Arabic IDP camps in Gamboru Ngala, Borno State. 

Also on Thursday, March 7, a school teacher, Sani Abdullahi, said at least 287 students and a principal, Abubakar Isah, were abducted when bandits invaded the Local Education Authority (LEA) Primary and Junior Secondary School, Kuriga, in the Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Peace message in Nigeria’s context

Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence was not simply about refusing to fight. It was about challenging injustice through peaceful means like dialogue, protest, and civic resistance without dehumanising opponents.

Nigeria has examples that mirror this philosophy. In recent times, movements like Bring Back Our Girls drew strength from peaceful advocacy. Even the #EndSARS protest organised by youths in 2021 and the #EndBadGovernance protest of 2024 were initially peaceful before they were marred by state clampdowns and violence.

Why non-violence matters

Nigeria’s current trajectory makes non-violent lessons more urgent. According to the Institute for Economics and Peace, Nigeria remains one of the world’s most impacted countries by terrorism and communal violence. Beyond the loss of lives, the economic toll of insecurity is staggering, with agriculture, trade, and investment all affected.

For a security analyst, Emeka Okoro, promoting a non-violent approach in Nigeria is not optional but a practical necessity. He added that peaceful negotiation in farmer-herder disputes, effective mediation in ethnic conflicts, and a justice system that protects rights could reduce bloodshed.

Youths of Nigeria and peace

With over 60 per cent of Nigeria’s population under 25, young people are at the centre of both violence and peace building. Many have been recruited into violent gangs or extremist groups, while others have spearheaded peaceful campaigns on governance and human rights.

 A call for leadership

For Nigeria, commemorating the International Day of Non-Violence cannot be reduced to a symbolic gesture. It demands action from leaders, institutions, and citizens. Political rhetoric that incites division, excessive use of force by security agencies, and judicial impunity all fuel violence and must be curtailed.

Gandhi once said, “There is no path to peace. Peace is the path.” For Nigeria, this means choosing dialogue over war, fairness over oppression, justice over repression and tolerance over hatred across ethnic and religious lines.

The road ahead

There have been reported cases of how grassroots peace initiatives, such as community dialogues in Plateau and Kaduna, have reduced tensions where state security failed.

These efforts suggest that non-violence is not utopian but achievable when communities take ownership of peace.

Expert view

Commenting on the spate of violence in the country, a security expert, Oladele Fajana, told The ICIR in 2024 that he is disappointed in the approach of the government and security agencies towards peace and security.

Fajana said it is regrettable that government and security agencies still allow “unfortunate incidents like this (abductions) to keep happening again and again.”

“Our security forces are reactionary. We don’t have to wait until our schools are attacked before we react,” he stated.

On the way forward, Fajana said the security forces should continue to anticipate attacks and increase peace dialogues.

The managing director of Beacon Consulting Limited, Kabir Adamu, in a chat with The ICIR, said the government should focus on implementing its Renewed Hope Agenda.

He added that the government must ensure that national security formations are more effective and efficient and avoid using ad-hoc means to address security challenges.

In his opinion, the publicity director of Arewa Youths for Peace and Security, Dantata Mohammed, urged Tinubu to review the country’s security architecture by putting the right persons at the helm of affairs. 

He also called for adequate incentives for all the security agencies.

As Nigerians reflect on the International Day of Non-Violence, the challenge is clear: the culture of violence that has normalised killings, kidnappings, and hate speech must give way to a culture of peace and tolerance.

NEMA confirms 14 dead, 42 missing in Kogi boat mishap

Mustapha USMAN
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0
NEMA confirms 14 dead, 42 missing in Kogi boat mishap

NATIONAL Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed that at least 14 people have died while 42 others remain missing following a boat mishap on the River Niger in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State.

According to the agency, the accident occurred at about 5:40 p.m. on Tuesday, September 30, when a boat carrying about 80 passengers capsized while travelling from Onugwa community to Olushi village.

In a statement posted on its X handle on Thursday, October 2, NEMA disclosed that 24 passengers have been rescued alive, while efforts are ongoing to find those still unaccounted for. 

“Search and Rescue (SAR) operations commenced swiftly, leading to the rescue of 24 passengers alive. Sadly, 14 corpses have so far been recovered, while 42 persons remain missing as efforts to locate and recover them continue.

“Community divers have been playing a critical role in the rescue operation, complementing the work of official response agencies.  The operation remains ongoing, and periodic updates will be provided as more information becomes available,” the statement added.

The agency emphasised the urgent need for strict adherence to water safety rules, including the use of life jackets and the avoidance of overcrowding on boats.

The ICIR earlier reported that President Bola Tinubu, on Wednesday, commiserated with the government and people of Kogi, who had earlier said that at least 26 people died in the incident.

However, NEMA’s confirmation indicates that the actual casualty figure stands at 14, with 42 others still unaccounted for.

The state commissioner for information, Kingsley Fanwo, stated in a press release that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo had directed the State Emergency Management Agency to provide immediate relief to the victims’ families.

“This is a heartbreaking loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and the entire Ibaji community in this moment of grief.”

The latest incident highlights the persistent challenge of unsafe water transportation in Nigeria. An ICIR report in September documented how at least 29 people died in a boat accident in Niger State when an overloaded vessel carrying over 90 passengers struck a tree stump on the River Niger.

Similar accidents were recorded in Sokoto linked to overloading, poor maintenance, and lack of safety gear.

In December 2024, no fewer than 54 bodies were recovered after a boat carrying about 200 traders capsized in Kogi, underscoring the recurrent nature of such disasters on the nation’s waterways.

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and emergency agencies have repeatedly warned against overcrowding and neglect of safety protocols. Yet, ICIR found that many communities along Nigeria’s riverine belts remain dependent on rickety wooden canoes without proper regulation, leaving passengers vulnerable.

How Arise TV anchor Somtochukwu died during Abuja robbery-FCT Police boss

Bankole ABE
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0
How Arise TV anchor Somtochukwu died during Abuja robbery-FCT Police boss

THE Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has confirmed that Arise Television anchor, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, died after jumping from the third floor of her apartment in Katampe while attempting to escape an armed robbery attack in the early hours of Monday, September 29.

FCT Commissioner of Police, Ajao Saka Adewale, disclosed on Wednesday, October 1, that officers responding to distress calls found the 29-year-old journalist unconscious on the ground floor of her residence, a three-storey twin block of 18 flats near the Gishiri axis of Katampe.

“She was immediately taken to Maitama General Hospital, where doctors tried to resuscitate her using CPR, but sadly, she could not make it,” Adewale said.

According to the police, armed men invaded the compound at about 3 a.m., shooting one of the private security guards on duty. In the panic that followed, Maduagwu, who lived on the top floor, leapt from her balcony in an attempt to flee the attackers.

“The consequences were tragic and very unfortunate,” the Police Commissioner said, adding that a team led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Investigation) had been set up to track down the assailants.

The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, also expressed grief over her death, describing it as “tragic and painful.” He assured that the Federal Capital Territory Administration would work with security agencies to ensure a thorough investigation.

“She was cut down in her prime. The police will unravel the circumstances surrounding her death and bring those responsible to justice,” Wike said in a statement signed by his aide, Lere Olayinka.

The FCT Health Mandate Secretary, Dolapo Fasawe, confirmed that Maduagwu was brought to the Maitama General Hospital dead at about 4:30 a.m. on Monday.

Arise News, in a statement, described her as “a vibrant voice that engaged and connected with our viewers,” noting that her passion and professionalism left a lasting impact on colleagues and audiences alike.

The killing of Maduagwu has reignited concerns about violent crimes in Abuja. Recent ICIR investigations highlighted persistent cases of armed robbery, kidnappings, cult clashes, and “one-chance” attacks on commuters despite official claims of improved security.

Residents of Katampe and neighbouring Mpape have repeatedly complained of night-time robberies and violent street attacks. In April, armed men stormed a hotel in Mpape and robbed a driver attached to the Zamfara State governor’s convoy before being arrested.

The capital city has also recorded several high-profile one-chance killings, including those of Freda Arnong in July 2025 and Greatness Olorunfemi in 2023, both victims of gangs posing as taxi drivers.

Barely three months ago, the murder of caregiver Chinyere Anaene and a toddler in Dawaki shocked Abuja residents and underscored the growing safety concerns in its suburbs.

Although the FCT Administration has cited reports suggesting a decline in crime rates, analysts told The ICIR that frequent violent incidents continue to cast doubt on the government’s assurances.

Meanwhile, the police have assured that “no stone will be left unturned” in bringing those behind the Katampe robbery and Maduagwu’s death to justice.

Fubara sacks commissioners, vows renewed service to Rivers

Bankole ABE
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0
Fubara sacks commissioners, vows renewed service to Rivers

RIVERS State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has disengaged members of his cabinet affected by the recent Supreme Court judgment, ending the tenure of commissioners and public officers whose appointments were nullified by the court.

The announcement was made on Wednesday October 1, during a valedictory session with the outgoing cabinet at Government House, Port Harcourt, as part of activities to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, the governor expressed gratitude to the affected officials for their service to the state over the past two years. “Your commitment and contributions have advanced the cause of development in Rivers State. I remain thankful for your sacrifices and dedication,” Fubara said.

The governor, who only recently returned to office following a six-month suspension under a federal state of emergency, urged Rivers residents to remain united and work with President Bola Tinubu “to build a peaceful, secure, and prosperous nation.”

The sack of the commissioners followed a Supreme Court verdict that nullified the appointments of several commissioners and public officers, effectively bringing their tenure to an end. Fubara said the decision to relieve them was in line with the judicial pronouncement.

The affected officials were part of the administration before March 2025, when President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the oil-rich state, suspending Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the state legislature.

The president cited insecurity and governance breakdown amid a prolonged rift between Fubara and lawmakers loyal to his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.

As The ICIR earlier reported, Tinubu’s intervention was controversial, defended under Section 305 of the Constitution but widely criticised by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and civil society groups as an abuse of power.

During the six-month emergency rule, sole administrator Ibok-Ette Ekwe Ibas, a retired vice admiral, managed the state, supervised local government elections swept by Wike’s allies, and introduced new policies, including civil service verification.

On September 17, Tinubu announced the end of emergency rule, citing “a new spirit of understanding” among political actors in the state. By midnight of September 18, Fubara, Odu, and members of the state House of Assembly were reinstated.

Since his return, Fubara has sought to consolidate his administration while navigating a political terrain still influenced by Wike’s network of allies. His latest move to dissolve the cabinet marks one of his first major steps in reorganising the state’s executive arm.

Addressing Rivers people during the valedictory session, Fubara emphasised his renewed commitment to deliver on governance. “I assure you that we will continue to serve this state with vigour and sincerity. Together, we shall build the Rivers of our dreams,” he said.

The governor also used the Independence Day celebration to call for national unity.

“Nigeria’s 65th anniversary reminds us of our collective responsibility to keep faith with the ideals of peace, security, and prosperity. I urge everyone to support President Tinubu’s efforts to achieve this vision,” he added.

Observers say the disengagement of commissioners marks the beginning of a new phase in Rivers’ politics.

PENGASSAN suspends strike, urges Dangote to implement agreed terms

Mustapha USMAN
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0
PENGASSAN suspends strike, urges Dangote to implement agreed terms

THE Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has suspended its nationwide strike following the intervention of the Federal Government.

The union, however, stressed that the suspension is only temporary and warned that any breach of the new agreement would trigger an immediate resumption of industrial action.

PENGASSAN President, Festus Osifo, announced the decision at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, October 1, after negotiations with government officials and representatives of the refinery.

“We are only suspending, not calling off this strike,” he said, adding that “If any part of this agreement is broken, we will not give any warning. We will immediately resume our suspended industrial action.”

The union leader said the truce followed “intense intervention” from the Federal Government but admitted that PENGASSAN remained deeply sceptical about the sincerity of the Dangote Group.

Recall that as part of the truce, the Federal Government earlier announced that workers recently disengaged by the refinery will be redeployed to other subsidiaries within the Dangote Group.

Minister of Labour and Employment, Mohammed Maigari Dingyadi, disclosed this in Abuja, confirming that the affected staff would retain their salaries and benefits.

“After examining the procedure used in the disengagement of workers, the meeting agreed that the management of Dangote Group shall immediately begin the process of redeploying the disengaged staff to other companies within the group, with no loss of pay. No worker will be victimised arising from their role in the impasse between Dangote and PENGASSAN,” Dingyadi said.

Meanwhile, the suspension brings relief after weeks of confrontation between the union and the refinery’s management. 

PENGASSAN had accused the company of unlawfully dismissing more than 800 Nigerian workers after they unionised, while replacing them with foreign nationals, allegations the refinery denied, insisting its restructuring was based on operational needs.

The standoff escalated when PENGASSAN ordered members to cut gas and crude oil supplies to the refinery, triggering disruptions across the country. 

By September 30, the Nigerian Independent System Operator confirmed that the strike had forced several gas-powered plants offline, reducing national electricity generation by about 1,100 megawatts and plunging cities such as Lagos and Abuja into darkness.

Fragile truce

While the Federal Government expressed optimism that the resolution would restore industrial harmony in the oil and gas sector, PENGASSAN warned that its patience should not be mistaken for weakness.

“The National Executive Council of PENGGASAN has decided that they will go ahead to take the moral high ground, that we will go ahead to prove to the government that we are extremely patriotic people, that love this country more than any single individual, that we will go ahead to suspend the industrial action that we started on Sunday, 28th day of September 2025.”

“Remember, we are only suspending, and we didn’t call off. We will be monitoring and following closely on any slip on the part of Dangote. If any part of this agreement, or any part of this communique as put up by the Ministry of Labour, is broken, we will not give any notice, we will not give any warning, and we will resume the suspended industrial action immediately.

“We have only suspended the industrial action in respect of the government of the land. As an institution, are we completely happy with what was provided? The answer for us is no,” he added.

NAPTIP arrests five suspected traffickers, rescues 24 at Abuja airport

Nanji Nandang VENLEY
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0
NAPTIP arrests five suspected traffickers, rescues 24 at Abuja airport

THE National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has arrested five suspected traffickers and rescued twenty-four in a special operation at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, October 1, NAPTIP’s National Press Officer, Vincent Adekoye, revealed that among those arrested at the airport was a retired senior officer from one of Nigeria’s leading law enforcement agencies, alleged to be a key member of a trafficking syndicate operating in the South West.

He said that the latest raid followed a tip-off from concerned stakeholders and partners who alerted to an influx of suspected human trafficking victims at the international airport, Abuja, and the unwholesome activities of some suspected traffickers.

Adekoye explained that the victims, aged between 15 and 26, were recruited from Kano, Katsina, Oyo, Ondo, and Rivers States, and were being trafficked to Iraq, Sudan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Afghanistan.

He noted that many of the victims could only speak their local dialects, while others did not know the countries they were being trafficked to.

According to Adekoye, one of the victims said the traffickers told her mother that they were taking her to Europe, where she would work and earn dollars, as he noted that her parents were happy and they allowed her to follow them.

He added that one of the victims pledged to pursue her father’s prosecution for deceiving her into making the journey, after the Director General personally counselled the victims and showed them video clips of stranded Nigerians and others on life support after suffering exploitation in destination countries.

The victim, whose father was among the traffickers arrested, said in her local dialect that her father only told her that his friend had a job for him at a supermarket in Baghdad.

Commenting on the development, NAPTIP Director General Binta Adamu Bello expressed concern over the actions of suspected human traffickers and unregistered labour recruiters who persist in deceiving, recruiting, and trafficking Nigerians for different forms of exploitation.

“I am impressed with the outcome of the operation today…We observed that the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport is becoming a comfort zone for these traffickers, and that is why we have decided to shift attention to this airport. We will sustain this raid until they stop this unpatriotic and illicit trade in human beings.

“I was amazed that a father, who is a retired Law Enforcement Officer of senior Cadre, deceived his daughter and packaged her to be trafficked to Iraq for exploitation. This is incredibly unbelievable. Well, all of them will be thoroughly investigated, and they will face the law,” Binta said.

Binta also appreciated the effort of the Airport Authority,  the collaboration of the Department of State Service operatives at the Airport, the Airport Security Personnel, Immigration Officers, and airline operators for supporting NAPTIP in the success of the operation. 

“Human trafficking is a visible national concern, and we all must be on the same page to turn the heat on the traffickers. Our resolve to ensure the protection of Nigerians from all forms of exploitation is firm and resolute”, Binta declared.

US embassy in Nigeria ‘temporarily suspends’ social media updates amid budget cuts 

Nanji Nandang VENLEY
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0
US embassy in Nigeria ‘temporarily suspends’ social media updates amid budget cuts 

THE United States Embassy in Nigeria has announced that it will halt routine updates on its social media channels following a lapse in US government funding, stemming from the ongoing budget deadlock in Washington.

The Embassy revealed this in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday.

“Due to the lapse in appropriations, this account will not be updated regularly until full operations resume, except for urgent safety and security information,” the social media post said.

It further stated that essential consular services such as passport issuance and visa processing will continue in the US, at embassies and consulates abroad, “as the situation permits.”

“At this time, scheduled passport and visa transit services in the United States and at U.S. Embassies and Consulates overseas will continue during the lapse in appropriations as the situation permits.

“We will not update this account until full operations resume, except for urgent safety and security information. For information on our services and operating status, visit http://travel.state.gov,” the tweet read.

The announcement follows a US government shutdown that took effect early Wednesday after lawmakers and President Donald Trump were unable to reach a deal on the federal budget.

The stalemate revolved around democratic calls for increased healthcare funding, resulting in a suspension of financing for numerous government operations.

Both Republicans and Democrats have pointed fingers at each other for the deadlock, which is anticipated to impact hundreds of thousands of government employees and millions of Americans dependent on federal services.

The shutdown, set to halt operations across numerous federal departments and agencies, comes amid sharp partisan divisions in Washington, raising concerns about its duration and potential impact.

Trump warned that he would penalise Democrats and their supporters by targeting progressive initiatives and implementing widespread public sector job cuts, marking the first government shutdown of his current term since a similar halt during his previous administration.

“So we’d be laying off a lot of people who are going to be very affected. And they’re Democrats; they’re going to be Democrats. A lot of good can come from shutdowns,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office, suggesting he would use the pause to “get rid of a lot of things we didn’t want, and they’d be Democrat things.”

Government operations started to shut down at 12:01 a.m. (0401 GMT) on Wednesday, following a last-minute but unsuccessful attempt in the Senate to approve a short-term funding measure that had already passed the House of Representatives.

The shutdown will not impact essential services, including the Postal Service, the military, and welfare programs such as Social Security and food assistance.

Tinubu commiserates with Kogi over boat mishap that claims 26 lives

Bankole ABE
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0
Tinubu commiserates with Kogi over boat mishap that claims 26 lives

PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has expressed condolences to the government and people of Kogi State following the death of at least 26 traders in a boat accident that occurred in Ibaji Local Government Area on Tuesday, September 30.

The victims were travelling from Ibaji to Ilushi market in Edo State when the boat capsized on the River Niger.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, and signed by his adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga,  the President described the incident as shocking and unfortunate, noting that the traders were engaged in their legitimate pursuit of livelihood.

He prayed for the repose of the deceased and comfort for their families, while also wishing the injured survivors a quick recovery.

“The loss of lives in this manner is deeply painful. I commend the efforts of first responders and urge emergency agencies at all levels to intensify their work in supporting survivors and the bereaved families,” the President said.

The President called on boat operators and water transporters to prioritise safety standards, including the use of life jackets and strict adherence to passenger limits, above financial gains.

The Kogi State Government also confirmed the tragedy. Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, said in a statement that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo had directed the State Emergency Management Agency to provide immediate relief to the victims’ families.

“This is a heartbreaking loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and the entire Ibaji community in this moment of grief.”

He added that the governor assured that his administration would intensify safety measures on waterways in collaboration with federal authorities to prevent further tragedies.

“Reports indicate that the unfortunate incident has claimed the lives of not less than 26 passengers,” he stated.

The latest incident highlights the persistent challenge of unsafe water transportation in Nigeria. An ICIR report in September documented how at least 29 people died in a boat accident in Niger State when an overloaded vessel carrying over 90 passengers struck a tree stump on the River Niger.

Similar accidents were recorded in Sokoto linked to overloading, poor maintenance, and lack of safety gear.

In December 2024, no fewer than 54 bodies were recovered after a boat carrying about 200 traders capsized in Kogi, underscoring the recurrent nature of such disasters on the nation’s waterways.

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and emergency agencies have repeatedly warned against overcrowding and neglect of safety protocols. Yet, ICIR found that many communities along Nigeria’s riverine belts remain dependent on rickety wooden canoes without proper regulation, leaving passengers vulnerable.

Nigerian US deportee accuses Ghanaian officials of ‘dumping’ him in Togo

Nanji Nandang VENLEY
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0
Nigerian US deportee accuses Ghanaian officials of ‘dumping’ him in Togo

A Nigerian man deported from the United States to Ghana has complained of being left stranded in Togo after Ghanaian authorities secretly moved him and five others across the border.

The BBC reported on Wednesday that the man, who requested anonymity, said they were told they were being relocated from a military camp to improved accommodation but were instead “abandoned” in Togo.

“Life there was really hard, so we asked for a better place, better medication, better healthcare and better water,” he told the BBC while describing how the conditions at the Ghanaian military camp were harsh and  “deplorable.”

He said that when officials returned days later, supposedly to transfer them to a hotel, they were instead taken to Togo.

“When we arrived, we asked what we were doing at the border, and they told us they wanted us to sign some paperwork so they could take us to a hotel, but we didn’t sign anything,” he said.

The deportee alleged that the group was escorted into Togo through an unofficial route, after local police were bribed, without informing Togolese authorities.

“They did not take us through the main border; they took us through the back door. They paid the police there and dropped us in Togo,” he said.

He explained that four deportees are Nigerians and one Liberian who have now taken refuge in a hotel in Lomé, the Togolese capital near the border. 

“I have a house in the US where my kids live. How am I supposed to pay the mortgage? I don’t know how they’ll manage while I’m gone. My kids can’t see me, and it’s just so stressful,” he lamented while highlighting the personal impact of his removal. 

Explaining that he belongs to the Yoruba Self-Determination Movement- an activist group pushing for a separatist state in south-west Nigeria, and fears that returning home could expose him to arrest or torture, he also claimed to have court-ordered protection in the US that should have blocked his deportation, though the American authorities have not clarified why it was ignored.

Notably, the deportee was among a larger group of West Africans, including citizens of Togo, Liberia, and The Gambia, who were deported from US detention centres to Ghana in September. Already, the group’s lawyers have filed lawsuits against both the US and Ghana, accusing them of violating their rights.

Commenting on the deportation, Ghanaian officials, including Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, said the country took in the deportees out of “pan-African solidarity,” stressing that no financial deal was attached.

The ICIR reports that the deportation agreement, announced by President John Mahama, has drawn criticism from opposition MPs, who are demanding its suspension until parliament ratifies it, even as the government prepares to receive another 40 deportees.

Nigeria immigration begins enforcement against expired visas on 1st October

Nanji Nandang VENLEY
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0
Nigeria immigration begins enforcement against expired visas on 1st October

THE Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has launched a crackdown on foreign nationals who have overstayed their visas or breached entry requirements.

The agency announced this in a public notice signed by its Public Relations Officer, Kinsola Akinlabi, stating that the move comes after the expiration of the Federal Government’s Expired Visa Initiative (Amnesty) program, which ended at midnight on September 30, 2025.  

“The initiative, which commenced on 1st May 2025, runs until 30th September 2025, and specifically applies to individuals who have either overstayed their visas or violated their visa conditions.

“With the expiration of the Amnesty period, effective 1st October 2025, enforcement actions will commence nationwide against foreign nationals who have overstayed their visa or violated their entry conditions,” Akinlabi said.

The ICIR reports that the Amnesty was designed as a three-month grace period, from May 1 to August 1, 2025, allowing foreign nationals with expired immigration status to regularise their stay, depart the country, or update their documents without facing penalties.

However, before the August 1 deadline, the NIS released a circular extending the grace period until September 30, 2025, granting affected individuals extra time to regularise their status in the country.

The agency outlined the penalties for foreigners who have overstayed their visas or failed to regularise their immigration status.  

“The amnesty applies to the following categories: Foreign nationals with Expired Visa on Arrival (VoA); Holders of Expired Single and Multiple-Entry Visas. Individuals with an Expired Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC), where renewal has exceeded 30 days post-expiration,” he added.

The spokesperson of the agency stated that the foreigners who violate Nigeria’s immigration laws will face sanctions such as overstay fines, deportation, and possible bans on future entry into the country.

“Less than 3 months overstay: Removal, $15 per day fine, or 2-year entry ban. 3 months to 1 year overstay: Removal, $15 per day fine, or 5-year entry ban. 1 year and above: Removal, 10-year entry ban or permanent ban,” he said.

He advised affected foreign nationals to promptly regularise their stay on their website within the grace period to avoid overstay penalties. 

The agency emphasised that the action is essential to protect national security and ensure order within the country’s immigration system.

The ICIR reported that the government is implementing a new visa regime that introduces an e-Visa platform, phases out Visa on Arrival, and automates landing and exit cards.

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