Nigerians in S’Africa asked to close shops

Nigerians who own shops in South Africa have been asked to close their shops and remain at home in the face of attacks on foreigners in the country.

Aminu Wali, minister of foreign affairs, told the media on Thursday that no Nigerian had been killed, although five foreign nationals have been reported dead.

He said: “With the discussions I have been having with Nigeria’s head of mission in Pretoria, no Nigerian has so far been affected. ‎

“They informed me that they have called the Nigerian community and addressed them and told them to close their shops, stay home and keep out of trouble and obey the laws of South Africa.

“They have also confirmed that the South African authorities have moved in to take actions that would forestall any further disturbance in South Africa.

“If it gets worse, it is the duty of our country to make sure our people are brought back, and we are taking that duty serious.

“We are not prepared to allow any of our nationals to be subjected to such inhuman treatment.

“We are not being reactionary because this is happening to all foreigners, not Nigerians alone. We are monitoring the situation and will now take action according to the situation that develops.”

South Africa and Nigeria do not enjoy the best of political relations, while Nigerians in the country often complain of xenophobic attitude by South Africans.