There is renewed hope for Suleimon Olufemi, a Nigerian man who has spent over two decades on death row in Saudi Arabia, following the successful raising of $570,000 in blood money required for his potential release.
Diplomatic Breakthrough After Two Decades
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) confirmed the development, stating that the substantial sum, known as Diyya in Islamic law, has now been fully paid. This payment is the result of a concerted effort involving Nigerian officials and citizens abroad.
The commission clarified the case details following an open letter from Amnesty International calling for President Bola Tinubu's intervention. NIDCOM explained that Olufemi had travelled to Saudi Arabia for the lesser pilgrimage (Umrah) and was visiting a friend in Jeddah when a tragic incident occurred, leading to the death of a police officer.
While others present received prison sentences, Olufemi was handed the death penalty. NIDCOM described his situation as being "in the wrong place at the wrong time," noting that the offence could not be conclusively proven against him.
How the $570,000 Was Raised
The fundraising effort was a collaborative mission. A significant portion, approximately $150,000, was contributed by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Seyi Tinubu. The remaining balance was gathered through a GoFundMe campaign spearheaded by the Association of Nigerians in Saudi Arabia, led by the Yaro brothers, during former President Muhammadu Buhari's administration.
NIDCOM emphasized that diplomatic channels have been actively engaged. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian Embassy in Saudi Arabia have been negotiating with Saudi authorities, paving the way for Olufemi's anticipated pardon and release.
"With the funds raised and diplomatic engagement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian Embassy in Saudi Arabia, we are optimistic that the Saudi authorities will pardon Suleimon Olufemi," the commission stated.
Family's Plea and Final Appeal
The Olufemi family has endured an agonising 18-year wait, repeatedly appealing to the Nigerian government for clemency. Their efforts, supported by NIDCOM's former Legal Director, Barrister Abdullahi Bello, who engaged the deceased officer's family, were crucial in securing the blood money agreement.
In its final appeal, NIDCOM urged the Saudi Arabian authorities to release Suleimon Olufemi "in the spirit of fairness, justice, and cordial diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia." The commission also acknowledged Amnesty International's advocacy while noting the organization was not part of the initial fundraising process.
All parties are now awaiting the final administrative and legal steps from the Saudi authorities to secure Olufemi's freedom and his long-awaited return to Nigeria.
