No fewer than 130 Nigerians have enlisted for evacuation from South Africa as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to protect its citizens amid renewed anti-foreigner protests in the country.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed this in a situation update on Sunday, noting that the move forms part of ongoing diplomatic and security responses coordinated with Nigeria’s mission in South Africa.
She explained that the evacuation arrangement followed a directive by President Bola Tinubu, who ordered close monitoring of developments and reinforced protection for Nigerians residing abroad.
“The President has reiterated that the priority at this time remains the safety of our citizens,” she said, adding that arrangements were ongoing to document Nigerians willing to return home under the voluntary evacuation programme.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu further revealed that the number of registered applicants could rise as more Nigerians indicate interest in returning, stating, “So far, 130 applicants have duly registered for the exercise with our mission.”
The minister also confirmed that the South African Acting High Commissioner had been summoned, while diplomatic engagements continue to address the growing concerns over the safety of Nigerians.
She said, “There is heightened anxiety over the series of anti-foreigner protests, also targeted at Nigerians in select cities in recent weeks.”
Despite assurances from South African authorities condemning violence, Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that disturbing images circulating online have sparked global concern.
“The images pervading both mainstream and social media depicting violence and xenophobic rhetoric have generated worldwide condemnation,” she stated.
She, however, clarified that recent protests held between April 27 and 29 in Pretoria and Johannesburg were largely peaceful, although heavily policed to prevent escalation.
“There is no recorded killing of any Nigerian or destruction of Nigerian-owned properties during this particular protest,” she said.
The minister, however, confirmed two separate fatalities involving Nigerians, allegedly linked to encounters with security personnel, describing the incidents as unacceptable and calling for justice.
“This is utterly condemnable. The Nigerian High Commission is closely monitoring investigations, and Nigeria demands justice be done,” she added.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu warned that another round of demonstrations is expected between May 4 and 8, prompting heightened coordination between Nigerian and South African authorities.
She stressed that Nigeria remains committed to working with South Africa to end recurring xenophobic attacks, noting that such tensions often escalate around election periods.
“Nigerian lives and businesses must not continue to be endangered. We will continue to engage South Africa to put a lasting end to this pattern,” she said.
Post a Comment
Drop Your Comment In The Box Below