THINK TWICE BEFORE GOING TO NORTHERN CYPRUS – FEDERAL GOVERNMENT WARNS.
Written by AIGBOKHAEBHO OKHUELEIGBE on August 25, 2022
The Federal government has warned Nigerians against moving to Northern Cyprus, due to the human rights abuses meted out to Nigerians in the country.
The Director-General of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa said this on Thursday at the 48th session of the State House Ministerial Media Briefing organised by the Presidential Communications Team at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
She warned that the country, which is only recognised by Turkey does not have robust mechanisms that would enable the Federal Government to pursue justice for several Nigerian students killed in the de facto state.
Officially called the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Northern Cyprus is a de facto state that comprises the northeastern portion of the island of Cyprus.
Recognised only by Turkey, Northern Cyprus is largely considered by the United Nations and the international community to be part of the Republic of Cyprus.
Dabiri-Erewa who explained that several Nigerians are being maltreated and killed in the region said:
Think twice before going to Northern Cyprus. We can’t do much for Nigerians there. Our students are being killed daily.
Dabiri-Erewa said all students psychologically affected by the conflict underwent proper counseling before continuing their education either online or onsite by enrolling in local Universities to continue their programmes.
The NidCom Chairman dismissed the fears of Nigerians in Diaspora that their business interests in the country may be in jeopardy by the prevailing security situation.
She acknowledged the insecurity in parts of the country but describes the situation as temporary.
BY YEMI ADEBAYO
