Itunu Babalola: FG makes fresh promise to family of Nigerian lady who died in Ivory Coast prison

 

The Nigeria Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), has disclosed that the Federal Government of Nigeria would ensure justice for Ms Itunnu Babalola, a Nigerian lady who died in Ivory Coast prison recently, whether alive or in death.

 

Spokesman of the Commission, Alhaji Abdur-Rahman Balogun, stated this during the funeral of the deceased at the Sango Cemetery, Ibadan.

 

Recall that the late Babalola, popularly known as, Becky Paul, was reported to have been sentenced for an offence she didn’t commit.

 

Balogun, who led the Federal Government delegation, was quoted by NAN as saying: “It’s a sad moment for the family of Itunu and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

 

“This is part of the Federal Government and citizens’ diplomacy.

 

“The Federal Government has been involved in this matter since the story broke out. The lady was wrongfully accused of something she didn’t do.

 

“She was jailed and the Federal Government intervened, but we got to know very late.”

 

Balogun said that the Federal Government’s intervention was through the country’s mission in Côte D’Ivoire and got a lawyer for her.

 

According to him, the lawyer appealed against the case in court and her sentence was reduced from 20 years to 10 years.

 

He said: “We were pressing for justice until she was suddenly taken away from City to Interland so that they could perfect her justice.

 

“Unfortunately, we heard she developed complications in prison and within a few days, she passed on when we were close to getting justice for her.”

 

Balogun, who is also Head of Media, Public Relations and Protocols NIDCOM, said the government had demanded an autopsy, which they had carried out.

 

“Based on this, the lawyer who appealed the case is pressing on to ensure justice for Itunu.

 

“Since she is the breadwinner of the family, the government will not leave the family alone. We’ll assist the family to the best of our ability.”