Saudi Arabia has released a statement to clarify and give reasons for the deportation of Nigerians from the Saudi Kingdom.
Recall that 264 passengers had been notified that their visa had been cancelled when they landed at the King Abdulaziz International Airport, Hajj Terminal Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Monday, 13th November.
The Federal Government of Nigeria had since asked for calm over the deportation situation.
On Wednesday, November 15, the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Abuja gave an explanation for the situation.
According to a statement from the embassy, the passengers whom were refused entry, and subsequently deported to their earliest destinations, had not fulfilled the entry conditions and requirements in agreement with the applicable rules and regulations of the Kingdom.”
The statement also added that the deportees registered incorrect information to acquire a category of visa that didn’t apply to them, which was uncovered upon their arrival.
“The Royal Embassy would like to emphasise the importance of following the due process and laws required by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for all visitors.
“Furthermore, all passengers should analyse all the documents to ascertain their adherence with the conditions before departing from their countries to the Kingdom.
This procedure is not limited to Nigerian citizens only, but to all citizens of other countries.”