In a significant diplomatic achievement, three Nigerian women—Hadiza Abba, Fatima Umate Malah, and Fatima Kannai Gambo—were acquitted of drug trafficking charges in Saudi Arabia after enduring 10 months in detention. They had been arrested on March 5, 2024, at Prince Mohammad bin Abdul Azeez International Airport in Madinah.
The trio’s arrest was linked to a previous incident where two Nigerian nationals were caught with cocaine totaling nearly 1.7kg. Accused of complicity in the case, the three women faced a legal battle that attracted significant attention both in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed that their acquittal was the result of rigorous diplomatic and legal efforts by the Nigerian government. These engagements led to their discharge and subsequent release to the Nigerian Consulate-General in Jeddah.
Ambassador Muazam Nayaya and the Honourable Consul-General of Nigeria in Jeddah personally received the women, who are now awaiting the completion of immigration processes to return home and reunite with their families.
The Ministry emphasized its commitment to protecting the rights of Nigerians abroad and ensuring due process in all cases involving citizens. Their release serves as a testament to the importance of sustained diplomatic efforts and international cooperation in addressing complex legal challenges.
