Federal government has secured the freedom and full travel clearance of three Nigerians who were unjustly detained in Saudi Arabia.
Gatekeepers News reports that Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the trio has now been absolved of all allegations and cleared to return home.
Their ordeal began after NDLEA arrested a suspected drug trafficker, Mohammed Ali Abubakar (also known as Bello Karama), in August.
Investigators later discovered that criminal networks had covertly linked prohibited substances to the air tickets of three unsuspecting travellers: Maryam Hussain Abdullahi, Bahijja Aminu Abdullahi, and Abdulhamid Saddiq. The passengers had flown from Kano to Jeddah via Addis Ababa on August 6, 2025.
According to the ministry, Saudi authorities conducted a detailed investigation and confirmed the travellers’ innocence. Detention orders were lifted in mid-September, and the temporary travel restrictions placed on them have now been fully removed.
The statement noted that the Nigerian consulate in Jeddah immediately intervened, engaged Saudi officials, coordinated with the NDLEA, arranged legal support, and maintained close contact with the detainees throughout the process.
Two of the victims: Maryam Hussain Abdullahi and Bahijja Aminu Abdullahi returned to Nigeria on November 5. The travel ban on Abdulhamid Saddiq was lifted on December 2, with arrangements for his return currently underway.
The ministry said the development underscores Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad, while also praising Saudi authorities for their cooperation and professionalism.
