Three Nigerian women, who had been detained and prosecuted for alleged drug trafficking in Saudi Arabia, have been discharged and acquitted after spending 10 months in custody.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, confirmed the development on Sunday, emphasizing the role of diplomatic engagements in securing their release.
The women—Hadiza Abba, Fatima Umate Malah, and Fatima Kannai Gamboi—were arrested on March 5, 2024, at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Madinah, after suspicions of aiding and abetting narcotics trafficking. Their detention followed the apprehension of two other Nigerians found with cocaine capsules weighing 1.69 kilograms.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform that three Nigerian nationals—Hadiza Abba, Fatima Umate Malah, and Fatima Kannai Gamboi—arrested and prosecuted for drug trafficking on March 5, 2024, in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, have been released after spending 10 months in detention,” the Ministry stated.
According to the Ministry, the case had drawn significant attention in both Nigeria and Saudi Arabia. The women’s eventual release was the result of extensive diplomatic and legal efforts.
“Their successful release was achieved after prolonged diplomatic and legal engagements, culminating in their discharge and acquittal,” the statement read.
The women were handed over to the Nigerian Consulate in Jeddah after their acquittal and received by Ambassador Muazam Nayaya, the Consul-General of Nigeria in Jeddah. They are currently undergoing immigration processes to return home and reunite with their families.
