Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu over what he described as a slow and inadequate response to the renewed wave of anti-immigrant violence targeting Nigerians in South Africa.
Atiku expressed concern over reports of attacks, intimidation, and harassment of Nigerians and other foreign nationals living in South Africa, warning that the continued silence and weak diplomatic engagement by the Nigerian government could endanger more lives.
In a statement released on Sunday, the former presidential candidate said the Federal Government must move beyond “routine condemnations” and urgently take decisive diplomatic steps to protect Nigerian citizens abroad.
According to him, the recurring attacks against Nigerians in South Africa have become a national embarrassment and require immediate intervention from both countries.
“The response of the Tinubu administration to the plight of Nigerians in South Africa has been shamefully slow and grossly inadequate,” Atiku said.
He called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to immediately engage South African authorities and ensure the safety of Nigerians residing in the country, stressing that every Nigerian life matters regardless of location.
Atiku also urged the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa to provide support for affected victims and intensify efforts to monitor developments closely.
The former Vice President further warned that repeated attacks on Nigerians could strain diplomatic relations between Nigeria and South Africa if concrete measures are not taken to stop the violence and bring perpetrators to justice.
The latest development comes amid renewed tensions and reports of xenophobic attacks in parts of South Africa, where foreign nationals have often been targeted during periods of unrest and economic hardship.
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