Nigeria has summoned South Africa’s top diplomat in Abuja following a wave of protests and reported attacks targeting foreign nationals and their businesses.
In a press statement released on Saturday and signed by the Spokesperson of the Ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed it has invited the Acting High Commissioner of South Africa for a meeting on Monday, May 4. The move signals a hardening of the diplomatic stance in Abuja as the government faces mounting domestic pressure to protect its citizens abroad.
Tensions on the rise
The Nigerian government expressed “profound concern” over the demonstrations, which it says have resulted in the mistreatment of Nigerians and the looting of their properties.
While the two nations are often described as the “twin pillars” of the African economy, their relationship has been frequently tested by recurring bouts of xenophobic violence in South African cities.”The objective of this engagement is to formally convey the Nigerian Government’s profound concern regarding recent events that have the potential to impact the established cordial relations,” the ministry stated.
A call for calm
The spokesperson for the Ministry, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, acknowledged a “growing discontent” among the Nigerian public. Social media has been flooded with videos purportedly showing the unrest, though many remain unverified. Despite the friction, Abuja is urging its citizens not to take the law into their own hands:
Government Commitment: The Federal Government reiterated its pledge to protect the rights of Nigerians living in South Africa.
Public Appeal: Officials have called for “calm” to avoid retaliatory actions that could further destabilize regional diplomacy.
Context of the dispute
Anti-foreigner sentiment in South Africa often stems from local grievances over high unemployment and competition for resources. However, Nigerian officials argue that their nationals are being unfairly profiled and targeted. Monday’s meeting is expected to be a high-stakes encounter. Pretoria will likely be asked to provide concrete assurances that security forces are doing enough to prevent further violence and to bring perpetrators to justice.
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