Amanze Chinonye
Nigerian citizens stranded in South Africa have continued to express frustration over delays in evacuation arrangements by the Federal Government, as concerns mount over rising xenophobic tensions and June 30 ultimatum issued by anti-immigration groups for undocumented foreigners to leave the country, Prime Business Africa reports.
The stranded Nigerians, many of whom have registered for repatriation, were gathered at the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria for coordination and further instructions regarding their return home.
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The situation comes amid heightened anxiety among migrant communities following reports of mobilisations by anti-foreigner groups in South Africa around the June 30 date, which has triggered fears of possible unrest.
Speaking on the situation, Nigerian citizen Christian Onyenweaku alleged that many of those affected are facing severe hardship, including hunger and lack of shelter, while relying heavily on humanitarian assistance.
“We are starving here. Many people have no place to stay and are surviving on food supplied by Christian societies and other aid groups,” he said.
Another stranded Nigerian, Ikye Okwuakwu, criticised what he described as the government’s slow response, particularly in light of the harsh conditions faced by women and children.
“It is so embarrassing and shameful that the government of Nigeria is so irresponsible. Nigerian citizens are stranded, women and children are in winter conditions, and yet there is no urgency in addressing their situation,” he said.
Okwuakwu also rejected diplomatic assurances praising President Bola Tinubu, insisting that such remarks were inadequate given the realities on the ground.
“If Tinubu cannot fix Nigeria and take responsibility for Nigerians, then he should resign,” he added.
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Adding to the appeals, Rollence Mabula, President of the Pretoria Human Rights Group, urged the Nigerian government to expedite evacuation efforts, stressing the humanitarian urgency of the situation.
“We are saying to the government of Nigeria, please assist those who have handed themselves over to go home,” he said.
Mabula added that it was unacceptable for people to remain in environments where they no longer feel safe or comfortable, calling for faster intervention.
Also weighing in, Hermes Eugene, Vice President of PFN South Africa, criticised what he described as a lack of urgency from Nigerian authorities in responding to the crisis.
“Nigerians are crying and they are politicking right there in the red chamber…” he said, accusing officials of failing to take sufficiently proactive steps to repatriate stranded citizens.
The Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria has reportedly been coordinating evacuation processes for registered citizens, though no clear timeline has been announced for their return.
As of press time, neither the Federal Government nor Nigerian diplomatic authorities in South Africa had issued a fresh update addressing the allegations of neglect or outlining an updated evacuation schedule.
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.
