Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has faulted President Bola Tinubu’s administration over what he described as a delayed and weak response to the latest xenophobic tensions targeting foreigners in South Africa.
Atiku said it was disappointing that Nigeria, widely regarded as Africa’s largest economy and a major force on the continent, appeared slow to act while smaller African countries swiftly moved to protect their citizens.
In a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku praised Ghana for quickly approving the evacuation of more than 300 citizens affected by the growing anti-immigrant threats in South Africa.
According to the former vice president, Nigeria’s reaction lacked the urgency, compassion, and decisive leadership expected from a country of its status in Africa.
“It is disturbing that Nigeria, which proudly calls itself the Giant of Africa, once again appeared reactive instead of proactive during a continental crisis,” Atiku stated.
He noted that while countries like Ghana immediately activated protective measures and issued strong responses, Nigeria remained largely silent until pressure mounted.
“At the first signs of danger, smaller nations acted swiftly to safeguard their people. Ghana showed leadership and urgency, while Nigeria delayed,” he added.
Although the Federal Government has now spoken about possible evacuation and repatriation plans, Atiku questioned why the response came late.
“Yes, the government has finally reacted. Yes, discussions about repatriation have started. But why did it take the actions of other countries before Nigeria found its voice?” he asked.
Atiku further stressed that Nigerians living in South Africa have repeatedly suffered intimidation, attacks, harassment, and destruction of businesses over the years, with little more than diplomatic statements from Nigerian authorities.
“A government’s primary responsibility is to protect its citizens wherever they are. Delayed action sends the wrong message that Nigerian lives can be treated as secondary,” he said.
The former vice president described it as embarrassing that Ghana, despite having fewer diplomatic resources and fewer citizens abroad, demonstrated stronger leadership and concern for its people during the crisis.
He urged the Federal Government to move beyond what he called “mere rhetoric” by issuing stronger travel advisories, activating immediate evacuation plans for Nigerians willing to return home, intensifying diplomatic engagement with South African authorities, and pushing the African Union to take stronger action against recurring xenophobic violence across Africa.
“Africa cannot continue preaching unity while fellow Africans are periodically targeted and attacked. Nigeria also cannot claim continental leadership while acting like a passive observer,” Atiku added.
He also called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to show greater urgency, competence, and commitment in protecting Nigerians living abroad.
- NAN