ST. GEORGE’S,  GRENADA, JUNE 6TH-New National Party candidate for St. David’s, Noleen Thompson, is demanding answers from the Dickon Mitchell administration over the arrival of more than 200 Nigerians to Grenada for African Liberation Day celebrations, raising pointed questions about whether the visitors were processed through normal immigration and customs procedures — and whether Grenadians were ever informed of a new visa-free access policy extended to Nigerian nationals.

Thompson, who is contesting St. David’s in the upcoming general election, was quick to frame her concerns carefully.

“Before I begin, let me be absolutely clear. I have no issue with Nigerians visiting, investing, working, or making a life in Grenada. My own family immigrated to Canada, so this discussion is not about race, nationality, or where people come from. This discussion is about transparency, accountability, and the right of Grenadians to ask questions when major decisions are made.”

At the center of the controversy are allegations that members of the Nigerian delegation did not undergo standard immigration and customs processing upon arrival.

Thompson stopped short of asserting the claims are true, but insisted the government has an obligation to respond. “If those allegations are false, then the government should provide clarity and put the matter to rest. But if they are true, then Grenadians deserve answers — how many people arrived, were they processed through immigration, what screening processes were undertaken, and how many remain on the island?”

Separately, Thompson flagged reports that Grenada has granted visa-free access to Nigerian nationals — a policy she says materialized without public announcement, parliamentary debate, or consultation with citizens. “Decisions of this magnitude should not simply appear without proper public discussion,” she said.

The candidate acknowledged potential benefits of stronger ties with Africa but argued transparency must not be sacrificed. “Supporting cultural exchanges does not mean citizens should be excluded from important national conversations.”

Thompson also took aim at what she described as a pattern of governance under Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell. “I am concerned that too many important decisions are being made without sufficient engagement of the Grenadian people. That should concern all of us, regardless of political affiliation.”

The Office of the Prime Minister had not issued a public statement at the time of this report.