The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has disclosed that it will cost N35m to repatriate the remains of Chibuikem Emmanuel, a Nigerian medical student murdered in the Philippines.
Emmanuel’s death, allegedly at the hands of Chinese nationals on October 23, 2023, was reported on social media by Michael Ojuola, a friend. According to Ojuola’s post, Emmanuel was “brutally murdered,” and the details were harrowing.
The Director Consular, Ambassador Enya Francis, assured the Senate during an investigative hearing that the ministry is closely monitoring the situation through the Embassy in the Philippines.
He emphasized the financial aspects, stating that the cost of repatriation and burial in Nigeria ranges from N31m to N35m, while cremation in the Philippines would be N10m to N15m.
Emmanuel’s sister, Blessing Essien, appealed to the Federal Government and Senate committees for assistance in bringing her brother’s body back to Nigeria for a traditional burial.
She highlighted the significance of honoring Igbo traditions and the family’s desire for a befitting farewell.
In the Senate, NiDCOM Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa provided an update, stating that Emmanuel’s employer in the Philippines and five others had been charged with murder.
Efforts have been made to coordinate with the Philippine authorities, including reporting the case to the Inspector General of the Philippines National Police.
Simultaneously, the House of Representatives called for an urgent investigation into Emmanuel’s killing, following a motion presented by Osun State Representative Mudashiru Lukman. Lukman recounted the circumstances leading to Emmanuel’s demise and emphasized the need for a thorough inquiry.
These developments underscore the complexity of the situation and the various efforts being made to seek justice for Chibuikem Emmanuel.
