South Africa Refuses Compensation for Nigerians Fleeing Attacks

On Saturday, South African Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni reaffirmed the government's refusal to compensate Nigerians who fled the country due to recent xenophobic attacks. During a press briefing, she emphasized that she did not stutter when she initially rejected the proposal for compensation.

This statement followed the Nigerian government's decision to document business assets left behind by evacuees, led by Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Temitop Ajayi. The Nigerian mission aims to compile details of abandoned assets to pursue possible compensation.

However, Ntshavheni maintained that South Africa would not compensate those who left, arguing that property ownership laws in the country mean owners retain rights to dispose of their assets without government compensation. She further claimed that properties not formally registered do not qualify for compensation.

Ntshavheni's comments drew criticism from Shehu Sani, a former Kaduna Central Senator, who expressed disbelief at the tone of her remarks, highlighting the ongoing debate on the issue.