The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has condemned the renewed wave of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa, declaring that “enough is enough.”
Dabiri-Erewa expressed concern over the attacks while reacting to the latest incidents that have affected Nigerian residents in the country.
Describing the situation as “terrible, disappointing and painful,” she said Nigeria’s response regarding its bilateral relations with South Africa would be determined by the appropriate authorities, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Presidency.
Her comments came shortly after the arrival of the first batch of evacuated Nigerians affected by the unrest.
A total of 258 Nigerians were received in Lagos after being evacuated from South Africa. According to government officials, the evacuation was undertaken to safeguard citizens facing threats, harassment and violence.
Related Posts:
The returnees are expected to undergo documentation, medical screening and temporary accommodation before being reunited with their families.
Dabiri-Erewa rejected suggestions that the affected Nigerians were involved in criminal activities, insisting that they were targeted because they were migrants.
She stressed that criminal conduct, where established, should be addressed on an individual basis rather than used to stigmatise entire communities.
The NiDCOM boss also noted that diplomatic efforts between Nigeria and South Africa remain ongoing, with discussions continuing through official channels.
According to her, additional evacuation flights may be arranged as authorities continue efforts to support Nigerians affected by the attacks.
She reiterated the need for stronger measures to protect foreign nationals and prevent further incidents of xenophobic violence.
