Nigerian officials strongly condemned fresh xenophobic attacks on its citizens in South Africa. They called for immediate intervention by the African Union
Vice President Kashim Shettima led the response. He described the violence as unacceptable. Shettima urged the Economic Community of West African States to push the African Union for decisive action against South Africa.
Nigerian authorities reported that attackers targeted shops and homes owned by Nigerians and other Africans in recent weeks. Several Nigerians suffered injuries, and two citizens, Emeka Charles Iroegbu and Musa Yunana Joe, lost their lives in separate incidents.
Nigerian senators joined the condemnation. They ordered a fresh investigation into the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa. Lawmakers demanded that South African authorities prosecute those responsible and provide firm guarantees for the protection of foreign nationals.
Moreover, the Senate rejected calls for reciprocal actions. Instead, it focused on diplomatic channels. Senators emphasized the need to preserve African unity while addressing the violence.
Foreign Affairs officials summoned the South African envoy. They expressed Nigeria’s protest over the repeated attacks. Nigeria also evacuated more than 1,490 citizens from South Africa amid the unrest.
Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye represented Nigeria in talks with Ghana. He met Ghana’s Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa on the sidelines of the ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit in Sierra Leone. Both sides agreed to urge the African Union to tackle the rising attacks on African migrants.
Presidents Bola Tinubu and John Dramani Mahama reinforced the message through their representatives. They stressed Pan-African solidarity and the importance of free movement across the continent.
South African officials acknowledged concerns about immigration and crime. However, they faced criticism for their handling of the situation. Nigerian leaders continued to call for calm among citizens abroad while diplomatic efforts proceeded.
The African Union is expected to discuss the matter at its next summit. Nigerian authorities vowed to protect their nationals and seek justice for victims.
