The Nigerian went on a hunger strike demanding his immediate release along with compatriot Globin, claiming they had already completed their prison term after spending over eight years in jail, official sources said.

Additional District Magistrate (City) A K Singh said he had explained that according to the jail mannual, his period of internment would be counted from the date of his sentence by the court and not from the date he had first been sent to jail.

The two claim they have spent eight years in jail and with the reduction granted by holidays, their 10-year prison term had been completed.

Meanwhile, District Magistrate P K Mohanty has drawn the State Government's attention to the issue.

The External Affairs Ministry had asked for a report on the matter after receiving a request from the Nigerian Embassy.