The Traffic

I Freedom After 10 Months: Saudi Arabia Releases 3 Nigerian Women Accused of Cocaine Trafficking

By Achimi Muktar

In a dramatic turn of events, Saudi Arabian authorities have released three Nigerian women—Hadiza Abba, Fatima Malah, and Fatima Gamboi—who were arrested for alleged possession of cocaine during a pilgrimage. The women, who spent 10 months in detention, are now free following sustained diplomatic interventions by the Nigerian government.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, broke the news on Sunday in Abuja, attributing the release to high-level negotiations between the Nigerian and Saudi governments.

A Controversial Arrest

The women were detained on March 5, 2024, at Prince Mohammad bin Abdul Azeez International Airport in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. Their arrest followed the earlier apprehension of two Nigerian nationals caught with a staggering haul of cocaine—80 capsules weighing 900.28 grams and 70 capsules weighing 789.5 grams, respectively.

Saudi authorities suspected the women of being accomplices to the traffickers, plunging them into a legal ordeal that captured widespread attention in both nations.

Diplomatic Breakthrough

The Nigerian government, through its diplomatic mission, engaged Saudi officials in protracted legal and diplomatic discussions. These efforts eventually resulted in the women’s discharge and acquittal, clearing them of all charges.

“The Ministry wishes to recall that the trio’s arrest attracted much attention in Saudi Arabia and Nigeria. Their successful release was achieved after prolonged diplomatic and legal engagements, which culminated in their discharge and acquittal, as well as subsequent handover to the Consulate-General of Nigeria in Jeddah,” Ebienfa said.

Homeward Bound

The women were handed over to Nigerian Consul-General in Jeddah, Amb. Muazam Nayaya, and are now awaiting the final immigration processes to return home and reunite with their families.

Their release underscores the importance of diplomatic channels in resolving sensitive international legal issues. It also highlights the Nigerian government’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad, especially in cases involving serious allegations.

The Larger Picture

This high-profile case adds to the ongoing narrative of drug-related arrests involving Nigerians abroad, particularly in strict countries like Saudi Arabia, where drug trafficking carries severe penalties, including the death sentence.

While the release of these three women is a cause for celebration, it serves as a stark reminder of the risks and consequences tied to drug trafficking allegations. For these women and their families, however, the nightmare is finally over, and they can now look forward to rebuilding their lives.