Why Are Nigerians Being Killed Abroad? Did New Year Violence in the UK and Canada Expose Growing Dangers for Nigerians in the Diaspora, as NiDCOM Mourns Two Victims?

Are Nigerians in the diaspora becoming increasingly unsafe? The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has expressed deep sorrow over the killing of two Nigerians in separate violent incidents in the United Kingdom and Canada in the early days of the new year, raising renewed concerns about the security of Nigerians living abroad.

In a statement issued on behalf of the Commission’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, NiDCOM described the deaths as shocking and deeply troubling. The Commission noted that the incidents highlight growing fears over the vulnerability of Nigerians in foreign countries, even in societies often perceived as safer.

Dabiri-Erewa extended heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the victims, urging them to remain strong in the face of the tragic loss. While commending the prompt actions of the UK Metropolitan Police and the Toronto Police Service, she called for thorough, transparent, and timely investigations to ensure that those responsible are identified and brought to justice.

According to reports, one of the victims, John Temitope Onetufo, a 23-year-old Nigerian, was fatally stabbed on New Year’s Eve in the Lewisham area of London. In a separate incident, Osemwengie Irorere, a 46-year-old Nigerian, was shot and killed at the Yorkdale GO Bus Terminal in Toronto, Canada, on Sunday, January 4. Both cases occurred within days of each other, amplifying anxiety within Nigerian communities abroad.

NiDCOM further assured the public that it would work closely with the Nigerian High Commissions in the United Kingdom and Canada to provide all necessary support to the bereaved families, in line with the Commission’s mandate to safeguard the welfare and interests of Nigerians living outside the country.

Beyond condolences, the tragedy has reignited a critical national conversation: Are existing diplomatic and consular protections enough to keep Nigerians abroad safe? Human rights advocates and diaspora groups argue that recurring reports of violent deaths, discrimination, and insecurity demand stronger international engagement, improved community policing partnerships, and better support systems for Nigerians facing risks overseas.

As investigations continue, many Nigerians are asking whether these killings are isolated criminal acts—or part of a disturbing pattern affecting Africans and immigrants in Western societies. For families left behind and a diaspora already on edge, the pressing question remains: What more can be done to ensure that Nigerians seeking opportunity abroad do not pay the ultimate price?

Please Let Me See Him Before I Die’: 80-Year-Old Mother of Nigerian on Saudi Death Row Begs for Son’s Release

Relatives of Suleimon Olufemi, a Nigerian who has spent nearly 20 years on death row in Saudi Arabia, have renewed their emotional plea for his release after the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) confirmed payment of the $570,000 (about ₦900 million) diyya demanded by the victim’s family. In a tearful video appeal, Olufemi’s 80-year-old mother begged Saudi authorities and the Nigerian government to show mercy and allow her son return home so she can see him before she dies. NiDCOM said diplomatic efforts were ongoing through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to secure a pardon, as Olufemi—who has consistently maintained his innocence—awaits clemency after being sentenced to death in 2005.

Over ₦800 Million Blood Money Paid to Secure Release of Nigerian on Death Row in Saudi Arabia – NiDCOM Confirms

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has confirmed the payment of $570,000 (about ₦826 million) in Diyya (blood money) to facilitate the release of Suleimon Olufemi, a Nigerian who has spent over 20 years on death row in Saudi Arabia. Olufemi was arrested in 2002 during an Umrah visit following a violent clash in Jeddah that led to the death of a Saudi police officer. With the victim’s child now of legal age, negotiations resumed, and the funds—raised by NiDCOM and Nigerian groups in Saudi Arabia—have been deposited into a Saudi government-designated account. Nigerian authorities are hopeful that ongoing diplomatic efforts will result in mercy and pardon after two decades of detention.

Nigerian Man on Death Row in Saudi Arabia Could Be Freed After $570,000 Raised by Seyi Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu, Diaspora

Suleimon Olufemi, a Nigerian man on death row in Saudi Arabia for over 20 years, may soon be released following the payment of $570,000 as blood money (Diyya). Funds were raised by Nigerians in the diaspora, Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Seyi Tinubu, and a GoFundMe campaign. NIDCOM confirmed that diplomatic engagement and payment of Diyya pave the way for his possible release, emphasizing fairness and Nigeria-Saudi Arabia relations. The case had drawn attention from Amnesty International, which urged President Tinubu’s intervention.

#Nigeria #SaudiArabia #DeathRow #SuleimonOlufemi #DiasporaSupport #SeyiTinubu #BabajideSanwoOlu #NIDCOM

NIDCOM Rebuts Amnesty International, Confirms $570,000 Blood Money Paid to Secure Release of Nigerian on Death Row in Saudi Arabia

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has countered claims by Amnesty International over the prolonged detention of Suleimon Olufemi, a Nigerian who has spent more than 20 years on death row in Saudi Arabia, insisting that critical facts were omitted from Amnesty’s narrative. NIDCOM disclosed that Olufemi’s death sentence was converted after the victim’s family agreed to accept blood money under Saudi Arabia’s Sharia-based legal system.

According to the commission, following years of diplomatic engagements involving Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian Embassy in Saudi Arabia, the victim’s family demanded $570,000 in compensation. NIDCOM said the funds were successfully raised through a coordinated effort involving Nigerians in Saudi Arabia, private donors, and supporters, including contributions from Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Seyi Tinubu during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

NIDCOM confirmed that the full amount has been paid into a designated account and that Nigerian authorities are awaiting final approval from Saudi officials to secure Olufemi’s release. While acknowledging Amnesty International’s advocacy role, the commission accused the organisation of failing to assist during the critical fundraising stage and urged it to present factual and balanced accounts. NIDCOM expressed optimism that Olufemi, who has consistently maintained his innocence, will soon regain his freedom after more than two decades in prison.

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#NIDCOM
#SaudiArabia
#HumanRights

Heartwarming Moment: Abike Dabiri-Erewa Shares Hug with Comedian Emmanuella

Social media was abuzz after a video surfaced showing the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, sharing a warm hug with popular Nigerian child comedian and skit maker, Emmanuella.

The touching clip, posted on Dabiri-Erewa’s official X (Twitter) handle on Sunday, October 5, 2025, captured a cheerful interaction between the two. The NIDCOM boss was seen engaging in a brief chat with Emmanuella before the duo exchanged a heartfelt hug.

Sharing the video, Dabiri-Erewa revealed that their encounter took place during one of her official trips. She praised the young star for her creativity and positive impact, describing Emmanuella as “an inspiration to many young Nigerians.”

Her post read:

“Ran into the exceptionally talented and beautiful Emmanuella during one of my official trips. A young star whose creativity and charm continue to inspire young talents across Nigeria.”

The heartwarming moment quickly attracted reactions online, with many Nigerians commending both women for their humility and warmth. Fans also lauded Emmanuella for maintaining her relevance and positivity in the entertainment industry.

NIDCOM Chairman, Abike Dabiri, Hails Nigerian’s Historic Promotion to U.S. Navy Commodore.

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has celebrated Captain Kelechi Ndukwe, a Nigerian-American, on his historic promotion to the rank of Commodore in the United States Navy.

In a statement signed by Gabriel Odu of its Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit on Friday, NIDCOM, under the leadership of Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described Ndukwe’s achievement as a source of pride to Nigeria, the global naval community, and Nigerians in the diaspora.

The statement read: “We congratulate Capt. Kelechi Ndukwe on his promotion to Commodore, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 60, and Commander, Task Force (CTF) 65 of the United States Navy in Rota, Spain. This remarkable accomplishment highlights his professionalism, leadership, and dedication to advancing global maritime security.”

In his new role, Commodore Ndukwe will oversee U.S. Navy destroyer operations across Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean. His career has been marked by trailblazing achievements, including making history in April 2021 as the first Nigerian-American to command a U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer, the USS Halsey (DDG-97).

Odu noted that Ndukwe’s journey from the son of Nigerian immigrants to one of the highest-ranking officers in the U.S. Navy reflects resilience, discipline, and excellence.

NIDCOM reaffirmed its commitment to honouring Nigerians abroad who embody hard work, honesty, and diligence, stressing that Ndukwe’s promotion exemplifies the positive impact of the diaspora and the limitless potential of Nigerians worldwide.

Gbolahan Macjob’s Ireke Breaks Global Records as NIDCOM Boss Abike Dabiri-Erewa Hails Historic Achievement

The Chairman and CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has applauded Nigerian international broadcaster and producer, Gbolahan Macjob, for the record-breaking success of his epic film Ireke: Rise of the Maroons.

In a statement by NIDCOM spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Dabiri-Erewa described the achievement as a remarkable milestone for Nigeria, noting that the production has shattered international records for a Nigerian local language film.

The film, which narrates the untold story of African slave rebellion in the Caribbean, has won global praise for spotlighting African and Nigerian history on the world stage. Beyond diaspora audiences, Ireke has captivated Caribbean communities, British viewers, and international film enthusiasts.

Dabiri-Erewa lauded Macjob’s creativity and impact, emphasizing his Abeokuta roots and career growth — from a Mass Communication graduate of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic to an Emmy-nominated BBC World Service journalist. She praised his continuous contributions to Nigeria’s global image and youth development through training initiatives and donations.

Highlighting the film’s historic feats, Ireke is the first Nigerian local language movie to premiere at Cannes, the Nollywood film with the longest UK screening, and the first to hold simultaneous premieres in London, Lagos, and Abeokuta. It also became the only Nollywood film to stage a press screening before its premiere.

With major screenings lined up in Canada, Ireke continues to cement its place as one of the most internationally celebrated Nigerian films ever.

Abike Dabiri Responds to Online Bullying Advice

The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has responded to a social media user who advised her to take legal action against cyberbullies.

On Thursday, September 4, 2025, the user wrote on his X page:

“Is the law on cyberbullying now in effect? A number of potential convicts here on this thread.”


Reacting via her official X account, Dabiri-Erewa laughed off the suggestion, stressing that she cannot be bullied. However, she confirmed that a legal framework does exist for those with strong evidence of online harassment.

In her words:

“Yes. That is true. Unfortunately, I can’t be cyber bullied but at least there is a law in place if anyone feels so strongly.”


Her response has since generated reactions online, with some Nigerians applauding her confidence, while others highlighted the importance of enforcing cybercrime laws more effectively.

"You have set a very dangerous precedent with this tweet" – Mr Macaroni rebukes NIDCOM boss Abike Dabiri for posting Kwam1's apology.

Nigeria News‘We Are Not Criminals’ – FG Fires Ghanaians Protesting ‘Nigeria Must Go.

The Federal Government, through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), has condemned the protest by Ghanaians calling on Nigerians to be deported from the West African country.

Naija News earlier reported that some Ghanaian citizens staged a protest against Nigerians, accusing them of engaging in mass prostitution, ritual killings, kidnapping, and violent crimes in their country.

In a viral video seen on Tuesday, the protesters, numbering in their hundreds, carried placards with inscriptions such as “Armed robbery and violent attacks must stop,” “Our health at stake due to mass prostitution,” “Nigerians are kidnapping and using people for rituals,” and “Our kids are getting missing because of Igbos.”

Reacting in a statement to Naija News, Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, NIDCOM, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, disclosed that Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO NIDCOM, said the blanket outrage against Nigerians living in Ghana and branding them as criminals should be condemned by all.

She said: “Nigerians are not criminals. They are good ambassadors wherever they find themselves while those bad ones should be fish out and face the necessary sanctions.


“Ghana and Nigeria are like siamese twins. They are brothers and such in the spirit of ECOWAS and regional integration should continue to live in peace like brothers.”

The NIDCOM Boss appealed for calm and urged Nigerians living in Ghana not to be provoked or go into violence with anyone as the issue is being handled at the diplomatic level.

She advised anyone using inciteful words to desist henceforth both from Nigerians and Ghanaians as that is capable of escalating the matter.

Dabiri-Erewa also advised Nigerians to disregard the videos circulating that Nigerians’ shops and properties are destroyed by Ghanaians.

“There is no evidence to that and we must at all cost prevent any reprisal attacks,” she said.

She praised Ghanaian and Nigeria High Commissioners for their efforts to control the situation, adding that the Minister of State, Foreign Affairs, has also been in touch with Ghanaian authorities and had taken some pro- active measures.

Dabiri-Erewa Refutes Badenoch’s Claim on Nigerian Citizenship Laws

Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has strongly rejected claims made by UK Conservative Party leader, Kemi Badenoch, that Nigerian law prevents women from passing citizenship to their children.

Speaking on Channels TV’s Hard Copy, Dabiri-Erewa described Badenoch’s statement as “entirely untrue” and “misleading,” citing Section 25(1)(c) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, which allows a child born abroad to claim citizenship if either parent is Nigerian.

“You can’t lie about your country and expect silence,” she said, adding that many Nigerians abroad are thriving politically and deserve recognition, not misinformation.

Badenoch’s remarks have drawn widespread backlash, including from human rights lawyer Femi Falana, who labelled her statement “a display of utter ignorance.”

This is the second time Badenoch has faced criticism over comments about Nigeria, following a rebuke from Vice President Kashim Shettima in December 2024 for her negative remarks on the country.