Obasanjo blames South African leaders for attacks on Nigerians

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has condemned the xenophobic attacks against immigrants in South Africa, blaming the country’s leadership under President Jacob Zuma.

Speaking in Abeokuta when he received a delegation from the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) Kuru, Jos, on Wednesday, Obasanjo described the development as “betrayal” of the struggle for the emancipation of South Africa against the apartheid regime.

He called on African heads of government to provide good leadership for their citizens as part of efforts to enhance regional integration.

“I will apportion more blame to the leadership of the South African government,” he said.

“While the immaturity of the youths can be excused, the leaders ought to realise the importance of unity and brotherliness in Africa.

“While I blame the youths of the country for the attacks, I will blame the leaders of any country more that allows xenophobic attacks against fellow Africans for whatever reason.

“African leaders should also step up measures at developing their countries and improve the living standards of their citizens.

“This will discourage our youths who because of under development and poor living standard seek greener pastures outside their countries.

“I feel disheartened learning that many of our youths perish while crossing the Sahara Desert or the Mediterranean Sea.”

The Nigerian community in South Africa has come under different attacks in recent times.