Investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo has issued a stern warning to Nigerians considering irregular migration to Libya, highlighting the severe hardships and dangers faced by undocumented migrants. Soyombo, founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), undertook a 47-day undercover journey from Kano through Niger Republic to Tripoli, documenting the harsh realities of irregular migration. His investigation revealed that many Nigerians are lured by the promise of a better life, only to find themselves trapped in worse conditions.
According to Soyombo, undocumented migrants in Libya often become stranded, exploited, robbed, and forced into unpaid labor. The migrants, who arrive in Libya hoping to continue their journey to Europe, are frequently unable to do so due to financial constraints and lack of legal status. As a result, they are forced to take low-paying jobs to survive, with some being coerced into working on farms in Libya's harsh desert environment. Soyombo emphasized that Libya's laws criminalizing irregular migration further exacerbate the situation.
Soyombo shared his experiences of witnessing migrants being forced to work on farms in extreme temperatures, often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. He recounted a disturbing incident where an Arab man attempted to conscript him and other migrants to work on a farm without pay. Those who could not escape were forced to work under the scorching sun for hours without receiving any payment. Soyombo's investigation also revealed that migrants are frequently robbed and exploited by locals.
The investigative journalist stressed that many Nigerians embark on the migration journey without fully understanding the dangers that await them. Despite the painful experiences he witnessed, Soyombo said he does not judge Nigerians who decide to take the risky journey, attributing their decisions to a lack of accurate information. His undercover investigation aimed to provide firsthand evidence of the realities of irregular migration, enabling Nigerians to make informed decisions.
Soyombo's 47-day journey was initially planned to last 30 days, but it took longer due to the unpredictable nature of the migration route. He emphasized that the journey is far more treacherous than many anticipate, citing the numerous risks and uncertainties involved. Soyombo's documentation of his experiences through photos and videos serves as a warning to others considering the journey.
The journalist noted that migrants in Libya are unable to access basic financial services, such as opening a bank account, due to the country's laws against irregular migration. This forces them to carry cash, making them vulnerable to robbery and exploitation. Soyombo's findings highlight the need for Nigerians to be aware of the risks associated with irregular migration.
Soyombo concluded by emphasizing the importance of documenting his experiences to warn others about the dangers of irregular migration. His investigation serves as a testament to the harsh realities faced by undocumented migrants in Libya, and he hopes that his findings will deter Nigerians from embarking on the perilous journey.
Key points
- Fisayo Soyombo warns Nigerians of the dangers of irregular migration to Libya, citing harsh conditions, exploitation, and robbery.
- Undocumented migrants in Libya face severe hardships, including forced labor, robbery, and exploitation.
- Soyombo's investigation aims to provide firsthand evidence of the realities of irregular migration, enabling Nigerians to make informed decisions.
