FG: Latest attack on Nigerians in S’Africa not xenophobic, merely a scuffle

The recent attack involving two Nigerians in South Africa was not xenophobic in nature, the ministry of foreign affairs has said.

Spokesperson Clement Aduku, in a statement, said the attack which took place at a motor park in Polokwane in the Limpopo province of South Africa, was nothing but a scuffle.

The ministry noted that although two Nigerians were injured and properties destroyed, there was no reported loss of life.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has received reports of alleged renewed attacks on Nigerians in South Africa. Such reports, coming on the heels of the recently concluded and highly successful dual-layered engagement with top officials and parliamentarians in South Africa, including members of the civil society, give cause for concern,” the statement read.

“Contrary to media reports, the recent incident was a scuffle that took place on March 14, 2017 in a motor park in Polokwane in the Limpopo Province in which two Nigerians were injured one of who has already been discharged from the hospital and the other receiving treatment.

“The ministry has received no report of casualty or death of any Nigerian in this latest altercation though some properties were reportedly destroyed in the ensuing escalation. From all indications, the recent incident does not constitute xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.

“Meanwhile, the ministry calls on the South African authorities to continue to take firm measures to maintain law and order, including the security of lives and property in the country such that Nigerians and other foreigners in South Africa may continue to go about their normal businesses without let or hindrance.”