Three Nigerian women, Hadiza Abba, Fatima Umate Malah, and Fatima Kannai Gamboi, who were arrested and prosecuted for drug trafficking in Saudi Arabia, have been acquitted and released after spending 10 months in detention. Their case, which attracted significant attention in both Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, was resolved following extensive diplomatic and legal efforts.
The women were initially arrested on March 5, 2024, at the Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah. They were suspected of aiding and abetting narcotics trafficking after two Nigerians were found in possession of cocaine capsules weighing a total of 1.69 kilograms. While the two men were directly involved in the trafficking, the women were held on suspicion of assisting in the crime.
Diplomatic Efforts Lead to Release
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the women’s release in a statement on Sunday, highlighting the critical role of diplomatic engagements that led to their discharge and acquittal. Following their acquittal, the women were handed over to the Nigerian Consulate in Jeddah, where they were received by Ambassador Muazam Nayaya, the Consul-General of Nigeria in Jeddah.
Return to Nigeria
Currently undergoing immigration processes, the three women are expected to return to Nigeria soon to reunite with their families. The ministry’s statement emphasized the importance of the sustained diplomatic and legal efforts that resulted in their successful release.
This case serves as a reminder of the crucial role diplomatic channels play in resolving legal issues for nationals abroad, particularly in cases that garner international attention.
