Atiku Criticises FG On SA Xenophobia Response

Atiku Criticises FG On SA Xenophobia Response

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has faulted the federal government’s handling of renewed anti-immigrant tensions in South Africa, where at least two Nigerians have been killed in recent unrest.

He said Nigeria’s response has been slow compared to other African countries.

Atiku said Ghana and other nations acted faster by moving to protect and evacuate their citizens, while Nigeria only reacted after pressure built up.

He argued that the country failed to show the kind of urgency expected from a regional leader.

He noted that Nigerians in South Africa have faced repeated attacks over the years, with losses of lives, destroyed businesses and growing fear among families.

He said responses from Nigerian authorities have often followed the same pattern of delayed diplomatic action.

He called for stronger steps including evacuation plans, a clear travel advisory and deeper diplomatic talks with South African authorities.

He also urged African leaders to build a stronger system to stop repeated attacks on foreigners across the continent.