FG summons South Africa envoy, xenophobic attacks, Nigerians in South Africa don cause serious concern as Federal Government don call South Africa Acting High Commissioner make e come explain recent attacks wey target Nigerians and their businesses for the country.
According to statement from Ministry of Foreign Affairs, meeting dey scheduled for today, May 4, 2026, for Abuja, where Nigeria go formally present its complaint over the rising violence and harassment against its citizens.
Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Minister, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, talk say Nigerian mission for South Africa dey work closely with host authorities to reduce tension and protect Nigerians. She add say government priority now na the safety of citizens.
Furthermore, she reveal say arrangement don start to organise voluntary evacuation flights for Nigerians wey wan return home. So far, about 130 people don register, and the number still dey increase as Nigerian associations for South Africa dey assist the process.
In addition, the minister condemn the repeated pattern of xenophobic attacks, noting say such incidents dey usually increase around election period for South Africa, as some political groups dey use anti-foreigner sentiment to gain support.
However, human rights expert, Prof. Uchenna Emelonye, wey be CEO of AfriRIGHTS, warn say the attacks no be ordinary violence but serious violation of human rights. According to am, killings, assaults, and destruction of businesses clearly break international laws on human dignity, security, and property rights.
He also call on Nigerian government, ECOWAS, and other African bodies to take urgent action, including diplomatic engagement, legal support for victims, and stronger advocacy to stop the attacks.
Finally, he stress say protecting citizens abroad no be option but core responsibility of government, adding say the situation na serious test of African unity and leadership.
