Nigerians in South Africa staged a peaceful protest in Pretoria on Monday, demanding urgent repatriation amid delays in flight arrangements and rising xenophobic attacks across the country. The demonstration, held outside the Nigeria House Commission, saw protesters chant “We no go gree” as they expressed frustration over the slow pace of evacuation efforts. Despite the federal government’s earlier announcement of five repatriation flights, only one had so far taken off, leaving hundreds stranded without food, shelter, or basic necessities. Protesters questioned the sudden cancellation of the remaining flights and called for transparency from Nigerian authorities.
One protester, speaking in a video during the demonstration, highlighted the dire conditions faced by women and children caught in the crisis. He lamented that families were forced to sleep outdoors in harsh weather, with no access to food or blankets. He criticized the lack of clear communication from the Nigerian ambassador, noting that the government had promised five aircrafts but only delivered one. “We want to know what is going on because from what we’re told the relief is not there,” he said, stressing that many Nigerians were ready to return home due to escalating tensions in South Africa.
The protest came as part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian government to evacuate its citizens amid renewed anti-immigration sentiment in South Africa. Scores of Nigerians had already undergone screening at the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria as officials worked to finalize flight schedules for registered returnees. Days earlier, 268 Nigerians were successfully evacuated, but over 742 others remain stranded across various provinces, awaiting repatriation. The delay has sparked widespread concern and renewed calls for the federal government to accelerate evacuation efforts and provide immediate humanitarian support.
Nigeria’s acting high commissioner in South Africa, Alexander Ajayi, addressed the protesters, clarifying that the repatriation process had not been cancelled but was temporarily suspended for operational reasons. He assured the affected citizens that they would be evacuated before June 30. “Contrary to insinuations that are going on that the repatriation has been cancelled, it has not been cancelled,” Mr. Ajayi stated, emphasizing the government’s commitment to bringing Nigerians home safely. The non-violent protest underscored the growing urgency among stranded citizens who are eager to return to Nigeria despite the emotional and physical toll of their displacement.
As the situation continues to unfold, the Nigerian government faces mounting pressure to resolve logistical bottlenecks and ensure timely repatriation. The outcome of these efforts will have lasting implications for the safety and well-being of Nigerians abroad, particularly in regions where xenophobia remains a persistent threat.
Leave a Comment