The Federal Government says it may retaliate against South Africa over renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians as plans to evacuate affected citizens gather pace.
Nigeria may be heading for a diplomatic showdown with South Africa following renewed attacks, harassment and displacement of Nigerians living in the country.
According to Tribune, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu disclosed on Monday that the Federal Government is considering retaliatory measures as reports of xenophobic violence continue to mount.
She revealed that President Bola Tinubu has directed that an aircraft be deployed for the voluntary evacuation of Nigerians who wish to return home. Screening and documentation of affected citizens are already underway, with officials working alongside South African authorities to process departures.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu rejected claims that most victims are undocumented migrants, insisting many are legitimate residents, workers and business owners.
She said Nigerian-owned businesses have been looted and burned, while many citizens have suffered intimidation and harassment.
The minister also accused South African authorities of not doing enough to curb the attacks or protect victims.
“Citizens are being harassed. Our citizens, their properties are being looted. Criminal actions are perpetuated on our citizens. The police refuse to do anything.
“The South African government has not come out strongly, firmly enough to condemn these incidents. So our citizens are imperilled. They are in distress. So they cannot be said to be illegal migrants.
“People who are doing legitimate business have their shops looted. They have their shops set on fire. Children cannot go to school because they are intimidated in their schools.”
The latest development adds fresh strain to relations between two of Africa’s biggest economies as concerns grow over the safety of foreign nationals in South Africa.
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