Three Nigerian women, previously detained and prosecuted for drug trafficking in Saudi Arabia, have been discharged and acquitted after spending 10 months in detention.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, confirmed the development on Sunday, crediting diplomatic efforts for securing the women’s release.
The individuals Hadiza Abba, Fatima Umate Malah, and Fatima Kannai Gamboi were apprehended on March 5, 2024, at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Madinah.
Their arrest stemmed from the seizure of cocaine capsules weighing 1.69 kilograms, found in the possession of two other Nigerians.
Initially accused of aiding and abetting narcotics trafficking, the women faced a lengthy legal ordeal. The case attracted significant attention in both Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, underscoring the complexities of international legal disputes involving drug-related offenses.
Following extensive diplomatic negotiations and legal advocacy, the women were acquitted of all charges and handed over to the Nigerian Consulate in Jeddah.
They were received by Ambassador Muazam Nayaya, the Consul-General of Nigeria in Jeddah. The women are currently undergoing immigration processes in preparation for their return to Nigeria, where they will reunite with their families.
In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted the importance of diplomatic efforts in securing the trio’s release.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform that three Nigerian nationals, Hadiza Abba, Fatima Umate Malah, and Fatima Kannai Gamboi, arrested and prosecuted for drug trafficking on March 5, 2024, at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Madinah, Saudi Arabia, have been released after spending 10 months in detention.
“The Ministry wishes to recall that the trio’s arrest attracted much attention in both Saudi Arabia and Nigeria. Their successful release was achieved after prolonged diplomatic and legal engagements, culminating in their discharge and acquittal, as well as their subsequent handover to the Consulate-General of Nigeria in Jeddah.
“The ladies were received by Ambassador Muazam Nayaya, the Honourable Consul-General of Nigeria in Jeddah, and are currently awaiting relevant immigration processes for their return to Nigeria to reunite with their families.”
The development marks a significant diplomatic success and brings relief to the families of the acquitted women, who had endured months of uncertainty.
