NiDCOM urges Nigerians in France to stay calm amid protests

NiDCOM DG, Abike Dabiri-Erewa. Photo: File

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission has urged Nigerians living in France to remain calm, maintain peace and respect the laws of their host country amid concerns affecting their communities.

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NiDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, made the appeal in a statement issued on Thursday by the commission’s Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun.

Dabiri-Erewa urged Nigerians to exercise restraint, avoid confrontations and cooperate peacefully with lawful instructions from French authorities.

She said Nigerians in France should “avoid confrontation, violence and provocation” while conducting themselves responsibly and upholding public order.

The NiDCOM boss also advised members of the Nigerian community to rely on verified safety information and refrain from spreading rumours or unconfirmed reports, particularly on social media.

She urged Nigerians to respect their neighbours and other communities, irrespective of nationality, religion or background.

Dabiri-Erewa emphasised that Nigerians living abroad had a responsibility to protect the country’s image while respecting the laws and institutions of their host nations.

“Nigerians in the Diaspora are ambassadors of their country and have a shared responsibility to uphold Nigeria’s image while respecting the laws and institutions of their host country,” she said.

She further advised anyone whose safety or rights might be at risk to seek appropriate legal assistance and contact relevant emergency or consular services.

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The commission also called on Nigerian community leaders, families, students, professionals and associations across France to promote peace, unity and responsible conduct.

The appeal comes amid protests in France over issues including the cost of living, public services and working conditions.

Demonstrations in major cities have drawn protesters from different sections of society, with some gatherings resulting in confrontations with security forces.

The unrest has raised concerns about public order and safety, prompting calls for calm and peaceful conduct.

French authorities deployed 70,000 police officers nationwide ahead of protests on October 24 following violence during earlier demonstrations, while officials reported arrests and injuries during the unrest.

NiDCOM, therefore, urged Nigerians in France to avoid violence, follow verified safety advisories and cooperate with lawful directives from the French authorities.

The commission urged community leaders to work together to sustain calm, encourage caution and maintain order within their communities.

The statement reaffirmed the commission’s call for Nigerians in France to prioritise peaceful coexistence and comply with the laws of their host country.