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The Nigerian government announced on Monday its deep displeasure with South Africa’s weak response to renewed xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerian nationals.
Officials warned that they are actively considering retaliatory diplomatic measures, including reviewing bilateral privileges for South African businesses.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, briefed correspondents after meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja.
She strongly rejected claims by South African authorities that the targeted Nigerians are illegal migrants.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu stated that mobs are looting and burning shops owned by legitimate Nigerian businessmen, while local police refuse to intervene, and children face intimidation in schools.
The minister highlighted Nigeria’s historical sacrifices during the anti-apartheid struggle, making the current hostility particularly painful.
She noted that her generation actively protested for South Africa’s freedom, and Nigeria committed massive funds to the cause.
In response to the escalating crisis, the House of Representatives has recommended suspending business permits for South African companies in Nigeria, while the Senate plans to send a high-level delegation to South Africa.
President Tinubu has approved five Air Peace evacuation flights and established a crisis response unit.
So far, 1,092 Nigerians have registered for voluntary repatriation, with over 500 cleared.
Although South Africa’s government publicly objected to the evacuation, Odumegwu-Ojukwu held her ground during talks, asserting that Nigeria would not watch the systematic harassment of its citizens.
Operational issues rescheduled the first evacuation flight from Monday to Wednesday, and the Nigerian government plans to collaborate with emergency agencies to rehabilitate the returnees.
