Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Senator Aniekan Bassey, has called on the international community to intervene in the detention of Nigerian humanitarian worker, Okey Vitalis Nnorom, also known as Michael.
He said the Senate is deeply worried by reports confirming that Nnorom remains in custody after joining the Omar Al Mokhtar Flotilla, a humanitarian mission under the Global Freedom Flotilla, aimed at delivering aid to Gaza.
Contrary to earlier reports that he had been released to the Nigerian Embassy in Jordan, new findings show that Nnorom is still being held alongside three Moroccans, one Algerian, and one Spanish national.
Senator Bassey condemned the situation, describing it as “an unacceptable breach of international law and a violation of basic human rights.”
He said the manipulation of facts and lack of transparency surrounding the detention reflect a disregard for humanitarian principles and global accountability.
“The unlawful detention of Okey Vitalis Nnorom is a serious concern to Nigeria and the global humanitarian community,” Bassey said. “We are calling for a coordinated diplomatic and international response to ensure his immediate and unconditional release.”
The senator urged the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to intensify diplomatic efforts and engage directly with the authorities responsible for Nnorom’s detention.
He also appealed to the United Nations, the African Union, Amnesty International, and Human Rights Watch to speak out and hold those responsible accountable.
According to him, peaceful humanitarian missions deserve global respect and protection.
“The people who dedicate their lives to humanitarian work embody the highest values of humanity,” he said. “To detain them unlawfully is to attack the very ideals of compassion and justice that unite nations.”
Bassey reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerians abroad, especially those engaged in peace and humanitarian service.
He assured that the Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs will continue to monitor developments until Nnorom regains his freedom.
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