By:Onifade Samuel;
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reportedly declined to personally receive a special envoy sent by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa following renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa.
The South African delegation, led by the country's Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, arrived in Abuja on Monday, July 27, with a message from President Ramaphosa. The visit was aimed at easing growing diplomatic tension between the two countries after fresh attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa.
However, instead of meeting the delegation himself, President Tinubu directed that the envoy be received by Nigeria's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye.
Reports suggest that the President's decision reflects Nigeria's frustration over the continued attacks on Nigerians in South Africa. The Nigerian government believes that despite repeated promises from South African authorities, many of these attacks continue to happen, while those responsible are rarely brought to justice.
The latest tension follows reports of fresh violence, including the alleged killing of a Nigerian identified as Chika Ibe in Cape Town. The incident has sparked outrage in Nigeria and renewed calls for better protection of Nigerians living in South Africa.
During the meeting with the South African delegation, Nigerian officials stressed that the safety of Nigerians must be treated as a priority. They called on the South African government to take stronger action against xenophobic attacks by arresting and prosecuting those responsible. They also urged South Africa to fully implement existing agreements designed to protect the citizens of both countries.
In response, Ronald Lamola said the South African government does not support xenophobia and remains committed to protecting everyone living in the country, regardless of their nationality. He added that investigations into the recent attacks are ongoing and assured Nigeria that South Africa values its relationship with Africa's most populous nation.
Although President Tinubu did not personally receive the envoy, diplomatic talks between both countries are still continuing. Political observers believe the decision was a strong message that Nigeria wants to see real action against xenophobic violence, not just diplomatic discussions.
Nigeria and South Africa have enjoyed strong political and economic ties for many years, but repeated xenophobic attacks have often created tension between them. Similar incidents in 2008, 2015, 2019, and now 2026 have affected relations and raised concerns about the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa.
As discussions continue, many Nigerians hope this latest diplomatic move will encourage stronger action from South Africa to protect foreign nationals and strengthen the relationship between the two countries.
Post a Comment