By Oluwakemi Kindness
Nigeria’s Acting Ambassador to South Africa, Temitope Ajayi, has assured that Nigerians living in the country are not under siege amid recent reports of xenophobic tensions.
Speaking on a National Television on Monday, Ajayi said both the Nigerian and South African governments are working together to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens, including foreigners.
He said, “Let me first make the point that right now Nigerians are not under siege in South Africa. The situation is currently under control. The governments are working on it.”
“The priority right now is to ensure the safety and well-being of every citizen, including foreigners,” he added.
On Reports of Xenophobic Incidents
The ambassador’s comments follow reports of anti-foreigner protests and isolated incidents of violence in parts of South Africa, including Durban, Cape Town, and East London, where foreign-owned shops were reportedly attacked.
Ajayi described the incidents as isolated tensions, urging caution in interpreting the situation.
“What we have seen is a kind of isolated tension, and that is why it calls for caution,” he said.
“But in terms of direct attack or siege on Nigerians, that is not taking place right now.”
He noted that the South African police authorities have issued warnings against xenophobic behaviour and targeting of foreigners.
Situation Calm in Key Cities
Ajayi further stated that the situation in major cities remains calm.
“For now, I am in Pretoria and the situation is relatively calm. Johannesburg is also calm,” he said.
He explained that earlier disturbances in KwaZulu-Natal had been contained, prompting swift government response and public advisories.
Call for Calm Among Nigerians
Reacting to viral videos suggesting discrimination against foreigners, the ambassador said the individuals involved do not represent the broader South African population.
“Those people you are seeing don’t represent the entire South African community. They are just people acting on their paymasters,” he said.
He urged Nigerians in South Africa to remain calm, obey local laws, and adhere to safety advisories issued by authorities.
The federal government, through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, had earlier advised Nigerians in South Africa to exercise caution, stay indoors where necessary, and temporarily suspend business activities in affected areas.
