There are over 1.3 million Nigerians in Indian prisons, Ohanaeze tells Tinubu

Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately initiate diplomatic engagement with the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, saying " over 1.3 million Nigerians currently languish in various prisons across the 28 states of India."                                            

The apex Igbo sociocultural organization made the call in an electronic statement sent to Fresh Angle International this afternoon, Sunday November 17.                                 

In the statement, which was e - signed by the Secretary - General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the Igbo group, implored President Tinubu, to advocate for release of the over 1.3 million Nigerians in Indian prisons.                               

The Organization, stated inter - alia: "The Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, extends a heartfelt welcome to the Honorable Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, on the occasion of his historic maiden visit to Nigeria—the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 17 years. This momentous event presents an invaluable opportunity for the two nations to deepen their strategic partnership, unlocking new avenues for collaboration and growth across critical sectors.

"Ohanaeze Ndigbo recognizes that the visit of Prime Minister Modi heralds a potential renaissance in Nigeria’s economic landscape, with a focus on attracting Indian investments in mining, infrastructure, and defense. With both nations embodying the aspirations of democracy—India as the largest democracy in the world and Nigeria as the largest in Africa—we stand poised to cultivate a natural alliance that can yield dividends for millions.

"In this spirit, we emphasize that 17 years have elapsed since the last visit by Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in October 2007. Inevitably, the present is a clarion call for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to harness the diplomatic momentum generated by this visit to surmount the economic challenges currently besetting Nigeria. The long-standing diplomatic relations between our nations—dating back to the opening of India's diplomatic mission in Lagos in November 1958, just two years before Nigeria’s independence—serve as a testament to the solid foundation upon which we can build.

"We urge President Tinubu to focus his discussions with Prime Minister Modi on fostering Indian partnerships in technology, energy, infrastructure, and transportation, particularly in the context of railway systems and mining. This is an opportune moment to address longstanding immigration issues affecting Nigerians in India, as precise and informed dialogue can pave the way for collaborative solutions.

"Of profound concern is the alarming situation regarding our citizens abroad: over 1.3 million Nigerians currently languish in various prisons across the 28 states of India, the highest concentration of Nigerian prisoners in any country globally. Such a sobering statistic calls for immediate diplomatic engagement. 

"Our verified intelligence indicates that many of these individuals face unjust detention under stringent immigration laws that do not differentiate between genuine students, medical tourists, or legitimate business persons beset by administrative hurdles. 

The plight of these Nigerians, many of whom are ostensibly innocent and have been detained without proper trials, must be brought to the forefront of discussions between President Tinubu and Prime Minister Modi. We implore the President to advocate for their release and potential state pardons as a humanitarian gesture that reflects our shared values and commitment to justice.

"It is vital to clarify that our advocacy does not extend to those individuals who have been convicted of crimes against Indian laws; rather, we seek to protect the rights of those who are victims of systemic challenges and racism endemic to the immigration experience.

" As we stand on the brink of deeper cooperation, we also call upon President Tinubu to contemplate Nigeria’s membership in the BRICS economic bloc. With current global economic dynamics, this represents a timely opportunity to stabilize the Naira and engage in beneficial trade with member nations—including Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Following the recent G20 Summit, there is palpable expectation among Nigerians for our leadership to pivot strategically towards enriching our economic sovereignty by embracing BRICS.

"In the context of Prime Minister Modi’s current visit and the consequent opportunity it presents, we urge President Tinubu to summon his righteous resolve and political will to act decisively. The time to elevate Nigeria’s status on the global stage, foster sustainable economic partnerships, and safeguard the welfare of our citizens abroad is now.

"We thank the international community for its attention to this pressing matter and look forward to a productive and transformative dialogue between our two nations."

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