MON 28 FEB, 2022-theGBJournal- The disturbing reports of brutality against Nigerians in Ukraine trying to flee the war with Russia emerged Sunday and the Federal Government of Nigeria has promptly reacted, reminding the Ukrainian authorities of the long history dating back to decades of Nigerians and other Africans studying in Ukraine, particularly medicine.
The Presidency emphasised that paramount to Nigeria is the safety and human rights of some 4,000 Nigerian citizens and many others from friendly African nations today stranded in Ukraine.
Majority of Nigerian citizens in Ukraine today are university students-enrolled students, and from video evidence, first hand reports, and reports from those in contact with their wards and Nigerian consular officials there have been unfortunate reports of Ukrainian police and security personnel refusing to allow Nigerians go board buses and trains heading towards Ukraine-Polish border.
The Federal Government detailed, in a statement Sunday, how, in one video widely circulated on social media, a Nigerian mother with her young baby was filmed being physically forced to give up her seat to another person.
‘’There are also separate reports of Polish officials simply refusing Nigerian citizens’ entry into Poland from Ukraine,’’ FG said.
According report, one group of Nigerian students having been repeatedly refused entry into Poland have concluded they have no choice but to travel again across Ukraine and attempt to exit the country via the border with Hungary.
‘’We understand the pain and fear that is confronting all people who find themselves in this terrifying place. We also appreciate that those in official positions in security and border management will in most cases be experiencing impossible expectations in a situation they never expected. But for that reason, it is paramount that everyone is treated with dignity and without favour,’’ the Presidency said following the unfortunate incidence.
According to the Presidency, all who flee a conflict situation have the same right to safe passage under the UN Convention and the colour of their passport or their skin should make no difference.
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