South Africa Rejects Nigeria's Compensation Request

The South African government has dismissed a request from the Nigerian government for compensation for citizens who fled xenophobic attacks, asserting that the individuals are drug dealers. South African Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, made this statement during a press conference on Friday, emphasizing that the government will not compensate anyone for properties left behind.

She stated that the properties are not legally recognized as they were not officially registered with relevant authorities and were sold in the country’s property market, thus considered illegal. Ntshavheni also mentioned that the South African government is focused on preventing the re-establishment of informal settlements and has approved new measures to demolish such areas.

This response comes amid renewed xenophobic violence targeting African migrants, which has forced many Nigerians to leave South Africa due to safety concerns.