Nigeria Initiates Evacuation Amid South Africa Protests

The Nigerian government has commenced arrangements for the evacuation of its citizens from South Africa due to escalating xenophobic protests, particularly in Pretoria and Johannesburg. Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated that the safety of Nigerians abroad remains a top priority.

As of now, at least 130 individuals have registered for voluntary repatriation flights. The situation has heightened anxiety among Nigerians, especially following the deaths of two Nigerian nationals, Amamiro Emmanuel and Nnaemeka Andrew, who were reportedly killed during encounters with South African security forces.

Ojukwu disclosed that demonstrations are anticipated to occur from May 4 to 8, prompting President Bola Tinubu to direct close monitoring of the situation. The Nigerian diplomatic mission in South Africa is maintaining constant communication with local authorities to minimize risks to citizens.

Ojukwu emphasized Nigeria's historical role in supporting South Africa's liberation struggle and warned that Nigerian lives and businesses should not be endangered.