XENOPHOBIA: It’s time to take ‘decisive actions’ to protect Nigerians in South Africa —Ezekwesili

Former presidential candidate, Oby Ezekwesili has called for stronger intervention by the President Muhammadu Buhari-led government to end attacks against Nigerians in South Africa.

There has, over the past few years, been a wave of xenophobic violence against Nigerians in South Africa.

The most recent being the violence that broke out in suburbs south of Johannesburg’s city center on Sunday and spread to the central business district on Monday.

It saw the destruction of more than 50 mainly foreign-owned shops and businesses. Cars and properties were torched and widespread looting took place.

Speaking on the xenophobic attacks, Ezekwesili noted that Nigeria played a major part in fighting for freedom and ensuring an end to apartheid in South Africa, and must therefore be treated with respect.

READ ALSO: Again, S/African govt fails to prevent xenophobic attacks as 3 confirmed dead, property of foreigners looted

The former minister, in a post on Twitter, said, “Dear President @CyrilRamaphosa and @GovernmentZA, the maiming and killing of citizens of Nigeria and other African countries in South Africa dishonours everything our collective fight for freedom was about.

“Even as children in primary school, we played our part. Please stop it.

“Dear President @MBuhari and @NigeriaGov, it is time to take decisive actions to protect our citizens in South Africa.

“The maiming and killings have gone on for too long without effective response. The bilateral relations with South Africa is troubled. It is time to be candid.”

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