Investigative journalist and founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism, Fisayo Soyombo, has issued a warning to Nigerians considering irregular migration to Libya. He shared his 47-day undercover journey from Kano to Tripoli, documenting the experiences of migrants on the Sahara Route. Soyombo highlighted that many Nigerians may see migration as an escape from economic hardship but may not fully understand the difficulties they could face in Libya.
According to Soyombo, some Nigerians who reach Libya become stranded after exhausting their funds and are forced to take jobs to survive while trying to raise money for another attempt to cross into Europe. He noted that irregular migrants in Libya face challenges accessing normal financial services and may be vulnerable to robbery due to the need to keep their money in cash. This situation arises because Libya has criminalized irregular migration, making it impossible for migrants to open bank accounts.
Soyombo described the harsh conditions faced by migrants who take up agricultural work in the desert, including exposure to extreme temperatures and non-payment for their labor. He recounted an incident where migrants were taken to work on a farm and were not paid. The migrants were later robbed of their money and forced to work again. Soyombo emphasized that those who cannot escape or seek help are left with no choice but to endure these difficult circumstances.
Soyombo does not blame Nigerians who have traveled to Libya, noting that many migrants he encountered expressed regret over their decision, stating they would not have made the journey had they known the difficulties ahead. His investigation aimed to provide first-hand information about the dangers associated with the journey and help Nigerians make more informed decisions. Soyombo's experience highlights the need for accurate information about the risks involved in migration.
The journey to Libya is more unpredictable than many migrants realize, despite preparations and estimates about the duration. Soyombo spent six months preparing for his project, yet his trip took 47 days, exceeding his initial budget of 30 days. He emphasized that many migrants embark on the journey without adequate information about the risks, making them vulnerable to exploitation and danger.
Soyombo's documentation of his experience is an effort to provide Nigerians considering the route with information about what they could encounter. He believes that by sharing his story, photos, and videos, he can help potential migrants make informed decisions. His warning comes as a cautionary tale, urging Nigerians to consider the harsh realities of migration to Libya.
The Foundation for Investigative Journalism founder concluded that the journey to Libya is extremely difficult and not a path he would wish on anyone. His investigation serves as a warning to Nigerians, encouraging them to weigh their options carefully and consider the potential consequences of irregular migration.
Key points
- Fisayo Soyombo warns Nigerians of harsh conditions in Libya, including exploitation, lack of financial services, and extreme temperatures.
- Many Nigerians become stranded in Libya after exhausting their funds and are forced to take jobs to survive.
- Soyombo's investigation aims to provide accurate information about the risks involved in migration to Libya.
