The Federal Government has launched a rescue operation for a group of Nigerian workers left stranded in the Central African Republic after a disturbing video of their ordeal began circulating online.
The clip, which quickly went viral, showed the abandoned workers in the Bambari region, roughly 850 kilometres from the country’s capital, Bangui.
The individuals claimed they had been left behind by both their employers and the agents who facilitated their journey.
In response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Friday, July 25, that officials at the Nigerian Embassy in Bangui had already made contact with the group.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is deeply concerned about the welfare of Nigerian workers currently stranded in the Central African Republic,” said Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the ministry.
“The video of the stranded Nigerian nationals in the Bambari region, which is about 850 kilometers from the capital Bangui and abandoned by their employers and facilitators, has been trending on various social media platforms.”
According to the ministry, the Nigerian Embassy is now working with local authorities to guarantee the safety and quick return of those affected.
“The affected Nigerians have been contacted by the hardworking officials of our Mission in the Central African Republic,” the statement continued.
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“The Embassy of Nigeria in Bangui is actively engaging with relevant authorities to ensure the safety, protection, and swift repatriation of the affected Nigerian nationals.”
The government confirmed that their passports had been retrieved and a vehicle dispatched to bring them back to Bangui. They are expected to arrive in the capital by Saturday, escorted by military personnel.
“Discussions are also ongoing with the company for their accommodation and welfare while in Bangui and their subsequent repatriation to Nigeria,” the ministry added.
While promising to protect its citizens abroad, the government also used the opportunity to issue a warning.
“The Federal Government reiterates its commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of its citizens everywhere in the world,” the ministry said.
“However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to advise Nigerians travelling abroad for work to verify the credibility of their employers and ensure proper documentation before departure.”
The statement also encouraged Nigerians working overseas to register with the nearest Nigerian embassy to avoid difficulties in times of crisis.
“Nigerians are also advised to register their presence and that of their employees with the Embassy of Nigeria whenever they are in any foreign country to avert unpleasant experiences in the event of consular issues,” it said.