By Hassan Osman Kargbo
A group of concerned citizens and voices of conscience have launched an urgent appeal to the Government of Sierra Leone, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and all relevant authorities to take immediate action to assist Sierra Leoneans stranded in deportation camps in Niger. While citizens of other nations have received support and safe repatriation, Sierra Leoneans continue to suffer in dire conditions, with no clear communication, plan, or official representation.
The situation of these stranded citizens is worsening by the day, and they feel forgotten by their government. They are sons and daughters of Sierra Leone, and they deserve dignity, protection, and the unwavering support of their government. The concerned citizens are calling on the Government to take immediate action to address this humanitarian crisis.
Specifically, the group is urging the Government to send an official delegation or representative to assess the welfare of Sierra Leoneans in the camps to enable the government understand the scope of the problem and develop a plan to address the needs of its citizens.
The group is also calling on the Government to collaborate with international partners such as the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to coordinate safe and humane repatriation.
Furthermore, the group is demanding that the Government publicly acknowledge the situation of its stranded citizens and provide a clear outline of the steps being taken to assist them. This would help to reassure the citizens and their families that the Government is taking their plight seriously and is working to resolve the situation.
The situation of Sierra Leoneans stranded in Niger is a matter of human rights, national duty, and moral responsibility. No Sierra Leonean should be left behind, and it is the Government’s duty to protect and support its citizens. The concerned citizens are standing in solidarity with their brothers and sisters and are urging the Government to take immediate action to address this humanitarian crisis.
The Government of Sierra Leone has a responsibility to protect and promote the welfare of its citizens, and this includes those who are stranded abroad. The situation in Niger is a test of the Government’s commitment to its citizens, and it is imperative that it takes immediate action to address the crisis.
In conclusion, the situation of Sierra Leoneans stranded in Niger is a humanitarian crisis that requires immediate attention from the Government. The concerned citizens are urging the Government to take action to assess the welfare of its citizens, collaborate with international partners to coordinate safe repatriation, and publicly acknowledge the situation.
The Government must act now to protect the dignity and rights of its citizens and demonstrate its commitment to their welfare.
The time to act is now, and the Government of Sierra Leone must take immediate action to address this crisis. The citizens of Sierra Leone are watching, and they expect their Government to protect and support them.
