SUNTV Global Channel | Human Rights Desk | May 4, 2026
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has condemned the detention of 62 Nigerians in Uganda, describing the development as unlawful and a violation of international human rights standards, while also urging President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene diplomatically.
In a statement issued on Monday, the rights group alleged that the Nigerians are being held without access to legal representation, communication, or due process, conditions it described as a serious breach of fundamental human rights.
The organisation warned that the situation undermines diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Uganda and called for the immediate restoration of the detainees’ rights.
CDHR National President, Yinka Folarin, said the detention violates key international legal frameworks, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.
The group also accused Ugandan authorities of arbitrary detention, stressing that affected individuals are entitled to fair hearing, legal counsel, and consular access under international law.
It further called on the African Union and the United Nations to step in, urging international pressure to ensure the release and protection of the detained Nigerians.
CDHR also appealed to the Nigerian government to activate diplomatic channels without delay to secure the safety and rights of its citizens abroad.
“The safety and dignity of Nigerians abroad must not be treated with indifference,” the group stated.
Beyond Uganda, the organisation also condemned what it described as persistent xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa, accusing South African authorities of failing to take decisive action against perpetrators.
CDHR argued that the recurring mistreatment of Nigerians abroad reflects deeper governance challenges at home, including economic hardship, corruption, and weak citizen protection systems.
It further urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts toward economic reform, good governance, and stronger diplomatic protection for Nigerians overseas.
“The dignity of Nigerians, whether at home or in the diaspora, must never be negotiable,” the statement added.
The Ugandan authorities reportedly arrested the 62 Nigerians over alleged immigration and religious activity violations, claiming they were operating without proper work permits. However, representatives of the missionary group involved have denied wrongdoing, insisting they complied with all required legal processes before their arrival.
As of press time, neither the Nigerian government nor Ugandan authorities had issued a comprehensive joint statement addressing the CDHR’s latest demands.
