Stranded Nigerians in Iran Accuse Embassy Officials of Abandonment Amid Escalating Iran-Israel Conflict
A viral video has surfaced online showing distressed Nigerians in Iran pleading for help outside the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran. The group, visibly shaken, has accused embassy officials including the ambassador of fleeing for safety and abandoning citizens as the conflict between Iran and Israel intensifies.
In the video, one of the stranded Nigerians stands in front of what appears to be the embassy building, expressing deep frustration. He claims they came seeking refuge and direction amid rising insecurity, only to find the embassy completely deserted.
“We are Nigerians, and we came to the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran because of the ongoing crisis. It’s been announced that residents should evacuate, but when we got here, no one was around — not even the ambassador,” he says.
He alleges that the officials have escaped to a nearby island, leaving Nigerian citizens behind to fend for themselves.
“They’ve all run away, and we’re left here. This is why we’re making this video — so the world can know that the Nigerian Government has abandoned its citizens in Iran,” he added.
In response to the public outcry, the Federal Government of Nigeria has confirmed that it is finalizing emergency evacuation procedures for Nigerians stranded in both Iran and Israel.
A statement issued by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noted that embassies in both Tel Aviv and Tehran are actively working to identify and assist affected citizens. The ministry acknowledged the situation’s urgency and assured Nigerians that their safety remains a top priority.
“The Federal Government is making necessary arrangements to evacuate all affected Nigerian citizens,” the statement read.
“We urge citizens to comply with local security guidelines and immediately register with the nearest Nigerian Embassy or Mission for support.”
The Ministry also recognized the efforts of diplomatic personnel still working on the ground and emphasized that coordination with international partners and local authorities is ongoing to facilitate a safe and timely evacuation.
The distressing reports from Iran come as violence escalates between Israel and Iran, raising security concerns for foreign nationals. The Nigerian Government has called for calm and vigilance while assuring families at home that it is doing everything possible to bring their loved ones to safety.
