The Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has stated that Nigeria’s diplomatic efforts with South Africa in response to xenophobic attacks are yielding positive results.
Agbese made this assertion on Monday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today. When asked whether Nigeria should have taken a harder stance following the attacks on its citizens in South Africa, Agbese responded, “No. I think so far, the diplomatic engagements we have initiated are making a good impact.”
He noted that Nigeria’s Ambassador to South Africa, Femi Fani-Kayode, is actively engaging with the South African government to address the situation.
“Today, to the glory of God, we see South Africans leading the Ubuntu movement, which is about promoting peace and love across Africa,” Agbese added.
He also pointed out that migration is driven by a variety of factors, not just hardship. “As I mentioned earlier, this is a significant issue for South Africa and also for countries whose citizens are seeking better opportunities elsewhere, Agbese said, referencing the ongoing xenophobic violence.
Recent xenophobic attacks have led to the departure of more than 176,000 people from South Africa in recent weeks, according to an AFP tally based on figures from African countries repatriating their nationals.
At least four migrants have been killed in the violence, according to South African police, though some foreign governments report higher numbers.
Ghana, a vocal critic of the violence, has called for the African Union to debate anti-migrant attacks at its next summit. Nigeria has similarly advocated for the issue to be placed on the AU’s agenda after a series of diplomatic disputes with South Africa over the recurring attacks.
Nigeria has evacuated 1,490 of its nationals from South Africa, while Ghana has repatriated at least 926.
