Nigerians Call for Law to Punish Citizens Engaging in Crimes Abroad

Strategic Insights -

Travel agents, tourism stakeholders, and government officials have come together to demand the introduction of a law that will punish Nigerians who commit crimes outside the country. They argue that the actions of these individuals damage the nation's image and influence visa policies of other countries. The proposal includes suspending the passports of those identified as engaging in crimes, forcing them to return to Nigeria and face punishment, which could range from penalties to prison sentences.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Nigerian government is being called upon to introduce a law that will punish citizens who commit crimes abroad to rebuild the country's image and reduce illicit activities.
  • The proposed law aims to suspend the passports of those identified as engaging in crimes, forcing them to return to Nigeria and face punishment.
  • Punishment could range from paying penalties, suspension of passport for up to 10 years, or prison sentence.
  • Travel agents and tourism stakeholders argue that the actions of these individuals damage the nation's image and influence visa policies of other countries.
  • The Nigerian government has faced challenges with Nigerians flouting laws in other countries, leading to stringent visa policies for Nigerians.
  • Examples of this include the United Arab Emirates (UAE) cancelling tourism visas due to widespread abuse and imposing more stringent conditions for Nigerians.
  • Travel expert and organizer of Akwaaba African Travel Market, Ambassador Ikechi Uko, believes that enacting a law to punish Nigerians damaging the country's image abroad is the most effective way to minimize obnoxious activities.
  • The proposal also aims to reduce the likelihood of Nigerians engaging in illicit behaviors while abroad, such as drug trafficking, financial fraud, and other crimes.

Statistics:

  • In September 2022, the United Arab Emirates issued visa sanctions to Nigeria due to the unruly behavior of Nigerians in Dubai.
  • The sanctions were issued due to cult fights, indulgence in criminal activities, and attempts to steal automatic teller machines, forcing UAE authorities to ban Nigerians' travel to the Middle East country.

Sources:

  • THISDAY
  • Travel Lab Nigeria Limited
  • Akwaaba African Travel Market
  • National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA)