By Suzan Edeh
A Human Rights Organization known as Conscience Foundation has called for the immediate release of five Chinese workers allegedly detained by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) over alleged visa irregularities.
The workers, identified as Zhang Damou, Qian Jin, Lin Jianfeng, TangPan, and Guo Zhengheng who are staff of Royal Castle Ceramics Nigeria Limited in Ogun State, were arrested on 12th August and are being held at NIS headquarters in Abuja.
This was contained in a press statement signed by the Executive Director of the foundation, Bunmi Oyekanmi and issued to Daily Independent .
According to the statement, the aarrest of the Chinese expatriates has sent a wrong signal to the international community and undermined Nigeria’s reputation as a hospitable destination for investment.
“According to reports reaching the Foundation, the Nigeria Immigration Service not only arrested these individuals without due process, but also laid siege to their company premises, disrupting operations”
“Such actions represent an abuse of power, a violation of human rights, and a direct affront to the principles of fairness, justice, and the rule of law”
“We request that the Nigeria Immigration Service prioritise diplomacy and cooperation over detention, considering the potential economic and diplomatic implications. We believe that a swift resolution to this matter will promote a favourable business environment and strengthen international relations” The statement read
The Foundation demandes the immediate release of the five Chinese workers currently in NIS custody and called for a transparent and lawful review process of any petition levelled against the expatriates in line with constitutional provisions and international human rights standards.
It recommend that the NIS engage in dialogue with relevant stakeholders, including the Chinese Embassy and business communities, to resolve visa issues amicably.