Nigeria Demands Probe After Trader’s Death in Côte d’Ivoire
Nigeria has demanded an investigation and compensation after a trader died in Côte d’Ivoire detention, citing concerns over consular protection failures.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has called for a full investigation and compensation following the death of Nigerian trader Usama Murtala, who passed away shortly after his release from detention in Côte d’Ivoire.
The case was confirmed by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, in a statement shared on her verified X account after a meeting with Côte d’Ivoire’s Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Kalilou Traore.
Earlier in the week, the minister had raised concerns about Usama Murtala and five other Nigerian youths in their 20s who were arrested in Abidjan and held without charge or trial. One of the detainees, Murtala, died days after leaving MACA prison, reportedly following an untreated illness during detention.
The remaining five Nigerians were later freed after diplomatic engagement between the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian Embassy in Abidjan.
According to Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria demanded clarification on why its embassy was not informed of the arrests. She said the lack of early notification delayed diplomatic intervention that could have saved Murtala’s life. She also explained that the men were on a trading trip and faced communication barriers and limited access to legal support in the French-speaking country.
The government further called for a transparent investigation by Ivorian authorities, alongside compensation for Murtala’s family. Nigeria also demanded the return of confiscated phones, money and personal belongings, as well as assurances that future arrests of Nigerians would be promptly reported to its embassy.
Ambassador Traore reportedly expressed condolences to the Nigerian government and the bereaved family, describing the incident as deeply regrettable. He also pledged to relay Nigeria’s concerns to authorities in Abidjan.
The Federal Government has vowed to continue pursuing justice for the affected families.
How can stronger consular protection be ensured for Nigerians travelling abroad?
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