The Federal Government has begun arrangements to evacuate Nigerians in South Africa following renewed protests and xenophobic rhetoric in parts of the country, particularly Pretoria and Johannesburg.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu said on Sunday that the safety of Nigerians abroad remains the government’s "top priority."
In a statement posted on her 𝕏 account, Odumegwu-Ojukwu disclosed that at least 130 individuals had already registered for voluntary repatriation flights.
"The President has reiterated that the priority at this time remains the safety of our citizens. Consequently, arrangements are currently underway to collate details of Nigerians in South Africa for voluntary repatriation flights for those seeking assistance to return home," she said.
She added: "So far, 130 applicants have duly registered for the exercise with our mission in South Africa, but this figure is expected to rise. Nigerian associations in South Africa are also assisting our mission in this regard."
The minister said anxiety had grown in recent weeks over anti-foreigner protests, some of which have targeted Nigerians in select cities.
"There is heightened anxiety over the series of anti-foreigner protests. The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has expressed grave concern about this situation and has called for more effective control of the situation by relevant host security services," she said.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu confirmed the deaths of two Nigerian nationals in separate incidents involving security personnel.
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She said Amamiro Emmanuel died on 25 April from injuries allegedly sustained after being beaten by members of the South African National Defence Force in Port Elizabeth.
Nnaemeka Andrew was reported dead following an alleged encounter with the Tshwane Metro Police, with his body discovered at the Pretoria Central Mortuary on 20 April.
"This is utterly condemnable and unacceptable. The Nigerian High Commission is closely following investigations into these unfortunate incidents and Nigeria demands justice be done in these cases," she said.
The minister revealed another demonstration was expected between 4 and 8 May.
President Bola Tinubu has directed close monitoring of the situation, and Nigeria has also summoned South Africa’s High Commissioner over the developments.
She added that Nigerian diplomatic missions in South Africa remain in constant communication with local authorities to minimise risks to citizens.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed Nigeria’s historic role in supporting South Africa’s liberation struggle, warning that Nigerian lives and businesses must not continue to be endangered.
"We remain committed to working with South Africa to explore ways to put an end to this xenophobic pattern," she said.
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