By: Goodluck E.Adubazi, Abuja.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep concern over the rising wave of xenophobic attacks and violence against Nigerians in South Africa, revealing that no fewer than 98 Nigerians have been killed since 2022 in mob attacks, hate-related violence and alleged extra-judicial killings.
The concern was conveyed on Monday during a high-level meeting in Abuja between Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Special Envoy and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola.
Speaking on the directive of President Tinubu, Ambassador Enikanolaiye described the continued attacks as unacceptable and urged the South African government to intensify efforts to protect foreign nationals, ensure justice for victims by prosecuting perpetrators, and prevent further incidents.
He also recalled Nigeria’s historic support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle, stressing that individuals accused of crimes should be prosecuted through lawful judicial processes rather than subjected to mob violence.
The minister further highlighted the humanitarian consequences of the crisis, referencing the recent evacuation of 1,490 Nigerians from South Africa, which he described as deeply distressing.
Responding, Special Envoy Ronald Lamola reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to combating xenophobia, racism and violence while maintaining that the country has the sovereign right to enforce its immigration laws.
He also expressed concern over criminal activities involving some Nigerian nationals and called for stronger bilateral cooperation to address organised crime.
Lamola disclosed that several suspects had been arrested in connection with recent attacks on Nigerians and that criminal prosecutions were already underway.
Following the meeting, both countries agreed to adopt diplomatic measures aimed at easing tensions and strengthening bilateral relations.
The agreements include de-escalating inflammatory rhetoric through diplomacy, enhancing cooperation on security and migration, accelerating the implementation of the long-delayed Early Warning Mechanism, preparing for the next Nigeria–South Africa Binational Commission meeting, and preserving the longstanding strategic partnership and Pan-African solidarity between both nations.
Ambassador Enikanolaiye is expected to brief President Tinubu on the outcome of the discussions as both governments seek lasting solutions to the recurring violence against Nigerians living in South Africa.
