- PeacePro raises alarm over alleged coercion of Nigerians in Russia
- Claims Nigerians were misled with fake job offers
- One victim says he was deployed to a conflict zone
- Group demands diplomatic clarification and investigation
The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has called on the Embassy of Russia in Nigeria to urgently clarify allegations that Nigerian civilians were deceived and coerced into military service under false employment arrangements.
In a statement issued by its Executive Director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, the organisation said the Russian mission owes Nigerians and the international community a clear explanation over what it described as a troubling and unacceptable development.
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The call follows reports that some Nigerian nationals who travelled to Russia in search of employment opportunities may have been misled into signing documents that allegedly resulted in their deployment to military facilities.
One of the affected individuals, identified as Mr Balogun, reportedly travelled to Russia on a tourist visa after being promised engineering-related opportunities. According to his account, he was taken to a military base shortly after arrival.
Balogun claimed he was presented with documents written in a language he did not understand and was allegedly denied access to both a translator and his mobile phone before being compelled to sign the papers.
“The day we were signing the contract, I didn’t understand the language. They didn’t allow us to use our phones to translate, so we signed,” he said.
“I told them about my profession. I thought they would put me in my field. I didn’t know they would use me like this.”
He further alleged that after only a few weeks of basic training, he was deployed to a conflict zone.
Hamzat described the reported incident as a grave violation of human rights and international norms, warning that it raises serious diplomatic, legal and moral concerns.
The organisation also urged the Federal Government of Nigeria to strengthen protective measures for citizens seeking opportunities abroad, stressing that economic migration must never expose Nigerians to exploitation or forced involvement in armed conflicts.
PeacePro concluded that the allegations warrant urgent diplomatic engagement, a transparent investigation, and stronger safeguards to prevent further harm to Nigerian citizens overseas.
