Amanze Chinonye
A Nigerian diaspora organisation, the Global Coalition for Security & Democracy in Nigeria (GCSDN), has urged the South African government to reject the appointment of former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, as Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to South Africa.
In a petition addressed to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, the group described Fani-Kayode as “temperamental” and unsuitable for diplomatic service, warning that his appointment could negatively affect relations between Nigeria and South Africa.
The petition, signed by the group’s Global Coordinator, Frederick Odorige, cited the former minister’s controversial public remarks, alleged history of public outbursts, and accusations of spreading disinformation during Nigeria’s 2023 general elections.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelREAD ALSO :
The organisation also referenced earlier media reports alleging that Germany rejected Fani-Kayode’s nomination as Nigeria’s ambassador, claims the former minister has strongly denied.
GCSDN warned that accepting the appointment could trigger diplomatic tensions and raise security concerns. The group added that copies of the petition had been sent to South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and other relevant authorities.
The development comes shortly after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved Fani-Kayode’s redeployment to South Africa following his earlier posting to Germany.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Fani-Kayode said he personally requested the redeployment after informing the then Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, that he preferred serving in South Africa for “personal reasons” and because of his interest in the country’s Pan-African outlook and closer ties with Nigeria.
According to him, the request was subsequently approved by President Tinubu after consultations with Tuggar.
Fani-Kayode also disclosed that Senator Ita Enang, who had initially been posted to South Africa, agreed to swap postings and proceed to Germany instead.
READ MORE :
Tinubu Approves Posting of 65 Ambassadors to Foreign Missions, UN : Full List
The former minister dismissed reports that Germany rejected his nomination, describing them as “false,” “malicious,” and “a complete fabrication.”
He accused an unnamed online publication of publishing defamatory reports intended to damage his reputation and embarrass the Nigerian government.
Fani-Kayode said he had instructed his legal team to initiate a civil action for defamation, adding that petitions had also been submitted to security agencies for investigation.
He maintained that no formal rejection was ever issued by the German government and challenged those behind the reports to provide documentary evidence to support their claims.
The agreement process for his posting to South Africa is still ongoing.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
