Tinubu orders Nigerian missions in South Africa to establish crisis unit as xenophobic attacks escalate
Bola Tinubu ordered the immediate establishment of a crisis notification unit within Nigerian diplomatic missions in South Africa, responding to a surge in xenophobic attacks. The directive serves as a formal government response to a climate of hostility that has left Nigerian nationals vulnerable across several provinces.
Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced the measure following discussions with her South African counterpart, Ronald Lamola. The Nigerian government has advised its citizens in high-tension areas like Durban to temporarily shut their businesses and remain indoors. Nigeria had earlier summoned South Africa's Acting High Commissioner, Lesoli Machele, to demand accountability over the deaths of Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew Ekpeyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro, who were allegedly assaulted by South African security personnel. Odumegwu-Ojukwu stated that the evacuation of Nigerian citizens who want to return home remains the government's priority.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu urged the South African police and justice systems to address extrajudicial killings with greater urgency. She questioned whether the term "xenophobia" accurately captures the nature of the violence, suggesting "Afriphobia" might be more accurate. She warned that the "violent and indiscriminate rhetoric and actions" of anti-foreigner political groups like Operation Dudula could "have the effect of jeopardising the safety of South African interests in Nigeria." Reports indicate that Nigerian students and "Sougerians"-children of mixed Nigerian and South African heritage-are facing bullying in schools.
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President Tinubu has ordered a crisis unit in South Africa amidst rising xenophobic tensions- African nationals are increasingly vulnerable. The Nigerian government is taking a firm stance, but the situation's complexities hint at deeper issues.
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