Xenophobic Attack: No Nigerian Was Killed, Says FG

It was widely reported earlier this week that at least 20 stores in Pretoria, owned by foreigners were destroyed and burnt down, which led to the killing of many Nigerians and the loss of properties worth millions of naira.

Following pressure from Nigerians and the global community, the federal government disclosed that discussions were ongoing with the South African government to protect Nigerian citizens and ensure calm in the affected areas.

However, the Minister of State or Foreign Affairs, Khadija Abba-Ibrahim, in a statement which came as a shock to many, said no Nigerian lost their lives in the attacks.

Following a meeting with the High Commissioner of South Africa to Nigeria, Lulu Aaron-Mnguni, in Abuja on Thursday, Abba-Ibrahim described the reports mentioning the killing of Nigerians in the xenophobic attacks are unsubstantiated.

The minister said, “The ministry has not received the report of any death of Nigerian in the latest incidents of attacks against foreigners.

“The Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria is in constant touch with the Nigerian Union in South Africa, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, DIRCO of South Africa, as well as the South African police.

“All these agencies have confirmed that no Nigerian life was lost in the recent incident.

“The government is in touch with South African authorities to ensure the safety of Nigerians there,” she added, appealing to the media not to fuel the crisis further with unconfirmed reports.

Also speaking, Mr. Aaron-Mnguni said the South African was working tirelessly to resolve the problem.

“The Minister of Foreign Affairs of South Africa will hold a briefing with the diplomatic community on Friday to fashion out more ways to solve the problem,” Aaron-Mnguni said.