The Federal Government has called on Nigerians residing in South Africa who believe they are no longer safe to take advantage of the remaining evacuation flights, warning that the wave of xenophobic attacks has yet to subside.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu made the appeal in a statement on Monday, expressing concern over the continued violence against migrants, which has reportedly claimed the lives of two Nigerians.
“Nigeria remains concerned about the safety of it’s citizens in South Africa as a result of the ongoing Xenophobic protests and attacks of migrants, and even more so following the deaths of 2 Nigerians, Musa Yunana Joe and Charles Iroegbu during these unfortunate events,” she said.
She noted that Nigeria had formally requested South African authorities to investigate the killings and ensure those behind the attacks are prosecuted.
“We demand that South African authorities urgently investigate the incidents and bring those responsible to justice, and are urging our citizens who consider their lives at risk to take advantage of the FG sponsored evacuation flights to be transported home.”
According to the minister, President Bola Tinubu approved an extension of the evacuation exercise after its original June 30 deadline. She disclosed that the fourth batch of evacuees arrived in Nigeria on July 3, while another aircraft is scheduled to depart for Johannesburg on Tuesday.
“Another evacuation flight will leave for Johannesburg tomorrow Tuesday 7th July to bring home our citizens,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu said, adding that “the last evacuation flight is expected to arrive South Africa on 10th July.”
She advised Nigerians still living in South Africa to carefully assess the situation before deciding whether to remain in the country.
“Our Nationals are again, advised to weigh the risks regarding whether to remain or return.”
The minister also reminded those hesitant about returning home that no material possession is worth risking a life.
“For many still sitting on the fence, they should do well to note that properties and investments lost can be replaced, but not lives lost.”
Odumegwu-Ojukwu reaffirmed that the Federal Government would continue to prioritise the protection and welfare of Nigerians living abroad.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria remains committed to the safety and welfare of it’s citizens abroad, and will put all necessary measures in place to protect it.”
The government had earlier announced plans to repatriate 270 Nigerians from South Africa through its ongoing voluntary evacuation programme, with the latest group expected to arrive in Lagos aboard an Air Peace flight on Wednesday morning.
