Nigeria considers sanctions over attacks on citizens in South Africa
The Nigerian government has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the South African authorities’ response to renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated that retaliatory measures, including a review of bilateral privileges, are being considered. She emphasized that Nigerians in South Africa are facing harassment, property destruction, and intimidation, while authorities fail to intervene. The government has initiated evacuation plans and is coordinating support for affected citizens.
What we know
- Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu criticized South Africa’s handling of xenophobic attacks, stating that Nigerians are being targeted and their businesses looted and burned.
- The Nigerian government is considering diplomatic and economic sanctions against South Africa, including a review of privileges for South African businesses and nationals in Nigeria.
- The House of Representatives recommended suspending business permits for South African companies, while the Senate plans to send a delegation to South Africa.
- President Bola Tinubu approved five Air Peace evacuation flights and directed the establishment of a crisis response unit in Johannesburg and Pretoria.
- As of Monday, June 8, 1,092 Nigerians had registered for repatriation, with screening extended to June 10 and over 500 already cleared for evacuation. The first evacuation flight was rescheduled from Monday to Wednesday due to logistical issues.
