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Nigeria to Evacuate Citizens from South Africa Amid Unrest

N

Nyakundi Report

Newsroom 2 min read

This archive report was first published on 9 September 2019.

Published on September 9, 2019, by Mohammed Momoh.

South Africa is currently experiencing widespread unrest, with some parts of the country, including Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Durban, hit with violence and looting in the past week.

The attacks, which targeted foreigners, have led to reprisal attacks in several Nigerian cities against South African businesses, including stores operated by the supermarket chain Shoprite and the telecoms giant MTN.

Nigeria summoned South Africa's envoy over the violence targeting Nigerians in South Africa, with the Nigerian government stating on Twitter that it would not tolerate further attacks on its citizens.

"The continuing attacks on Nigerian nationals and businesses in South Africa are unacceptable. Enough is enough. Nigeria will take definitive measures to ensure safety and protection of her citizens," the government added.

Reports indicate that there was a fresh wave of violence in Johannesburg on Sunday targeting foreigners, with protesters insisting that foreigners should leave the country.

Nigeria's Consul General in Johannesburg, Godwin Adama, expects more Nigerians to indicate interest in leaving South Africa, with over 400 already registered for evacuation.

"We have more than enough for that aircraft. Over 400 Nigerians have already registered; more are still coming," Adama said.

The Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Ambassador Kabiru Bala, reported that the necessary documents have been issued to the evacuees, and they will be provided with emergency travel certificates if needed.

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