from EMEKA OKONKWO in Abuja, Nigeria
Nigeria Bureau
ABUJA, (CAJ News) – NIGERIAN President Bola Tinubu is under pressure to shorten his international tour and return home to address attacks against Nigerian nationals in South Africa.
Tinubu departed Abuja on Sunday for a three-nation tour of France, Kenya, and Rwanda, aimed at strengthening economic ties and attracting investment.
However, Obiageli “Oby” Ezekwesili, an economist, governance advocate, and activist, has called for his immediate return.
“The Nigerian government must stop treating the killing and attacks on Nigerians in South Africa as routine diplomacy,” she said.
She criticised the timing of the visit, stating it was inappropriate while citizens were under attack.
Ezekwesili urged the government to demand a full account of incidents affecting Nigerians in South Africa, including deaths, injuries, arrests, prosecutions, and compensation processes.
“We need data from the South African government on everything that has happened to Nigerians in their country,” she said.
She also called for a time-bound justice framework covering investigation, prosecution, restitution, and public reporting.
Kenya has also condemned the violence, while advising its nationals in South Africa to remain vigilant.
This is described as the worst wave of xenophobic violence in South Africa in 18 years.
– CAJ News