Rescued Nigerian Workers Allege Sexual Abuse by Chinese Employers in Central African Republic

Twelve Nigerian workers recently rescued from exploitative conditions in the Central African Republic (CAR) have made disturbing allegations of sexual abuse against their Chinese employers.
The group, whose plight drew public attention after a viral video emerged three weeks ago, arrived in Nigeria on Friday and visited the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) headquarters in Abuja.
They were received by NIDCOM Chairperson, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, who commended their safe return and reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad.
In an emotionally charged recount, the workers alleged that while working for Chinese mining operators in CAR, they endured months of physical hardship, withheld salaries, and repeated sexual assaults. According to the leader of the group, Igorigo Freeborn, the employers not only owed them 11 months’ wages but also subjected them to homosexual abuse.
“We were homosexually abused by our Chinese employers in CAR,” Freeborn said, stressing the importance of letting the world know about their ordeal.
He urged Nigerian authorities and the international community to take stronger measures to protect migrant workers from abuse and exploitation.
The returnees expressed relief at being back home but called for justice and accountability, urging the government to ensure that their employers face prosecution.
They also appealed for rehabilitation and financial assistance to help them rebuild their lives after the traumatic experience.
While NIDCOM has not yet confirmed whether legal steps will be taken against the alleged perpetrators, Dabiri-Erewa assured that the matter would be escalated to relevant agencies and international partners.
The incident adds to growing concerns over the treatment of African migrant workers abroad, particularly in industries where oversight is minimal and exploitation is rampant.