Nigerian workers repatriated from CAR recount abuse by Chinese employers
Twelve Nigerian workers recently repatriated from the Central African Republic (CAR) have shared harrowing stories of abuse, exploitation, and neglect at the hands of their Chinese employers, calling the experience “horrible” and deeply dehumanizing.
The men, who were brought back to Nigeria following a viral video appeal that captured national attention, were received at the headquarters of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) in Abuja. They were welcomed by NIDCOM’s Chairman/CEO, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, along with other government officials.
In a press statement signed by Abdurrahman Balogun, Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols at NIDCOM, the returnees revealed that they had suffered months of unpaid work, sexual abuse, and abandonment in isolated job sites with no food, shelter, or medical care.
Speaking on behalf of the group, their spokesperson, Igorigo Freeborn, disclosed that they were owed 11 months’ salaries and endured 20 months of inhumane conditions.
“I am not ashamed to say it—we were treated horribly,” Freeborn stated. “We were homosexually abused by our Chinese employers, abandoned in the forest, and left to suffer without food or pay. But we thank God we survived to tell the story.”
He also expressed newfound appreciation for the Nigerian government, saying their swift response transformed his previously negative perception of the country.
“I used to believe nothing good could come from Nigeria, but the support we received has completely changed that. I want to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerian Ambassador to CAR, NIDCOM, NEMA, the Immigration Service, and all the agencies involved in our rescue,” he said.
Freeborn explained that with the help of the Nigerian Mission, the men were relocated to Bangui, the capital of CAR, where they received medical attention before being flown back to Nigeria.
While receiving the returnees, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa strongly condemned the abuse they suffered, describing it as “inhumane and unacceptable.” She pledged that the Nigerian government would investigate the matter thoroughly and take diplomatic action where necessary.
She also emphasized President Tinubu’s dedication to protecting Nigerians abroad through the administration’s citizen diplomacy agenda. Dabiri-Erewa encouraged the men to become advocates against irregular migration and use their experiences to educate others.
To aid in their reintegration, NIDCOM provided each returnee with a cash relief package and called on individuals and organizations in the private sector to offer further support.
Additionally, the JAALS Foundation, represented by Mr. Toyin Adenugba of Perchstone and Greys, presented a financial donation on behalf of Dr. Tolu Aderemi, Secretary to the Board of Trustees. Adenugba said the gift was intended to offer hope and help the men rebuild their lives.
The returnees were identified as Igorigo Freeborn, Rotimi Kupoluyi, Ajosi Julius, Odeh Collins, Anifowoshe Yekini, Akubo Oluwaseun, Olayemi Peter Adewale, Stephen Abel Otkli, Samuel Ojochenemi, Alih Joel Muhammed, Unekwu Bala, and Yusuf Bameyi.
