How Nigeria Government Secures Release of 3 Women Detained in Saudi Arabia Over Drug-Related Charges
After 10 months in detention, three Nigerian women arrested in Saudi Arabia on drug-related charges have regained their freedom following high-level diplomatic efforts between Nigeria and Saudi authorities.
The release of the women—Hadiza Abba, Fatima Malah, and Fatima Gamboi—was confirmed in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Background and Arrest
The trio was apprehended on March 5, 2024, at Prince Mohammad bin Abdul Azeez International Airport in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. Their arrest followed the earlier detention of two Nigerian nationals caught in possession of 80 capsules of cocaine weighing 900.28 grams and 70 capsules weighing 789.5 grams.
Saudi authorities detained the women on suspicion of acting as accomplices in the trafficking of the banned substance. Their case quickly drew widespread attention in both Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, amplifying calls for thorough investigations and diplomatic intervention.
Diplomatic Intervention and Release
According to Ebienfa, the women’s eventual release resulted from sustained diplomatic and legal engagements, spearheaded by the Nigerian government. After extensive negotiations, the Saudi judiciary cleared the women of all charges, leading to their discharge and acquittal.
Following their release, the women were handed over to Nigeria’s Consulate-General in Jeddah, where they were received by Ambassador Muazam Nayaya. They are now undergoing immigration clearance processes ahead of their return to Nigeria to reunite with their families.
Implications for Diplomatic Relations
The successful resolution of this case underscores the strength of Nigeria-Saudi Arabia relations and highlights the importance of diplomacy in addressing complex legal matters involving citizens abroad. Analysts believe the outcome could further bolster bilateral ties, fostering greater cooperation on legal, immigration, and security matters.
While the incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with international drug trafficking, it also showcases Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens’ rights and ensuring due process, even in foreign jurisdictions.
As the released women prepare to return home, the case leaves important lessons about the need for vigilance during international travel and reinforces Nigeria’s resolve to combat drug-related crimes while safeguarding its citizens from wrongful prosecution.
