The Federal Government of Nigeria is pressing for a detailed inquiry and financial restitution regarding the death of Usama Murtala. The Nigerian trader passed away shortly after being discharged from an Ivorian jail.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed these demands after consulting with the Ivorian Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Kalilou Traore. Murtala was one of six Nigerian men in their 20s detained in Abidjan without legal proceedings. While five of the men were freed through diplomatic efforts, Murtala died due to an untreated illness acquired during his time in the MACA facility.
Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu criticized the Ivorian government for failing to notify Nigerian embassy officials about the arrests. She emphasized that timely notification could have prevented the tragedy, noting that the victims suffered from language barriers and a lack of legal aid during their detention. Beyond the demand for a transparent probe and family compensation, the Nigerian government has insisted on the return of confiscated personal property and an agreement for immediate notification regarding any future arrests of Nigerians.
Ambassador Traore offered formal apologies and condolences, acknowledging the event as deeply regrettable. He promised to relay Nigeria’s requirements to his home government immediately.