Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has urged President Bola Tinubu to immediately suspend his ongoing foreign engagements and return home to address the growing concerns over attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.
In a statement posted on her X handle on Monday, Ezekwesili criticised the President’s decision to embark on a three-nation visit to France, Kenya, and Rwanda amid reports of violence against Nigerians abroad, describing the move as a failure of leadership.
She argued that the Federal Government’s current response ranging from diplomatic engagements to evacuation plans was inadequate given the scale and persistence of the crisis.
According to her, the recurring incidents of harassment, looting and killings of Nigerians in South Africa require a more decisive and coordinated national response beyond routine diplomatic measures.
Ezekwesili called on the government to demand a comprehensive account from South African authorities detailing reported attacks, casualties, property losses, arrests and ongoing prosecutions involving Nigerians.
She further urged Abuja to push for a clearly defined, time-bound justice framework covering investigation, prosecution, compensation and public accountability, warning that anything short of this could embolden perpetrators.
The former minister also stressed the need to strengthen Nigeria’s consular protection systems to ensure citizens abroad have access to emergency assistance and clear communication channels during crises.
Referencing Nigeria’s historical role in supporting the anti-apartheid struggle, she noted that continued attacks on Nigerians undermine longstanding diplomatic ties and shared history between both countries.
Ezekwesili added that firm diplomatic pressure from Nigeria could compel South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to take stronger action to curb the violence and protect foreign nationals.
She warned that failure to act decisively could erode public confidence in the government’s commitment to safeguarding Nigerians, both at home and abroad.
Her remarks come as authorities disclosed that at least 130 Nigerians have registered for voluntary evacuation from South Africa amid rising tensions linked to anti-foreigner protests.
