Nigerians living in South Africa call for stronger action against Pretoria following continued xenophobic attacks that target Nigerians and other African nationals. Akaninyene Willie, President of the Akwa Ibom Indigenes Forum in South Africa, says Nigeria should intensify diplomatic pressure to address deaths and destruction of livelihoods.
Willie reacts to Nigeria’s Federal Government decision to ban further official travel by its officials to South Africa. He urges the government to demand reparations of at least one billion rand for each Nigerian killed and for each Nigerian-owned business destroyed in the attacks. He argues that South African authorities are not taking adequate responsibility and suggests involving the International Criminal Court, saying the African Union has not provided sufficient help.
The group also calls on the Federal Government and state governments to speed up the evacuation of stranded Nigerians. The outlets report that thousands remain awaiting repatriation.
