Another 33 Nigerians have been evacuated from South Africa as renewed xenophobic attacks continue to force many citizens to abandon their homes, businesses and livelihoods in the country.
The latest batch of returnees came from Delta, Ogun, Imo, Lagos, Enugu, Oyo, Edo, Ondo and Bayelsa states, according to a statement released by the Federal Government.
The evacuation comes amid growing concern over the worsening security situation for Nigerians living in South Africa. The government disclosed that two Nigerians—James Uchechukwu Nwankwo and Bishop Taiwo Michael Fakunle—were killed in separate incidents this month.
Nigeria has strongly condemned the killings and renewed its call on South African authorities to identify and prosecute those responsible.
“Our Government has condemned these targeted killings, and continues to call on the South African Authorities to investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice,” the statement said.
As part of measures to show its displeasure over the attacks, the National Assembly has suspended official visits to South Africa and is also boycotting legislative activities hosted by the country.
The Federal Government expressed appreciation to individuals and organisations that contributed funds to bring stranded Nigerians back home.
It thanked the Private Group of Business Friends (PGNBF) for sponsoring the evacuation of 26 of the 33 returnees. The group had earlier financed the return of 83 Nigerians and later another 67, bringing the total number of citizens it has helped repatriate from South Africa to 176.
The government also commended the Nigerian Lawyers Association (NLASA) for funding the return of five evacuees, while a private citizen from Bayelsa State sponsored the return of three indigenes.
In addition, the Igbo Lawyers Association South Africa (ILASA) was recognised for recently funding the repatriation of 28 Nigerian nationals.
“On behalf of the Government and People of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, we extend our immense gratitude to these public spirited groups and private individuals for coming to the aid of their imperiled compatriots,” the statement added.
The Federal Government also appealed to state governments that are yet to support the resettlement of their citizens returning from South Africa to complement ongoing federal efforts.
It, however, singled out Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, for his intervention in assisting returnees.
According to the statement, Governor Mbah recently hosted a reception for 77 Enugu families comprising 112 returnees and presented ₦1 million to each family to help them rebuild their lives.