The Federal Government has advised Nigerians in South Africa who are concerned about their safety to take advantage of the final evacuation flights, warning that the security situation has shown no signs of improving following recent xenophobic attacks.
In a statement issued on Monday, July 6, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said the government remains worried about the welfare of Nigerians living in South Africa, especially after the deaths of two citizens, Musa Yunana Joe and Charles Iroegbu.
“Nigeria remains concerned about the safety of it’s citizens in South Africa as a result of the ongoing Xenophobic protests and attacks of migrants, and even more so following the deaths of 2 Nigerians, Musa Yunana Joe and Charles Iroegbu during these unfortunate events,” she said.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said Nigeria has formally called on the South African authorities to investigate the incidents and ensure those responsible are prosecuted.
“We demand that South African authorities urgently investigate the incidents and bring those responsible to justice, and are urging our citizens who consider their lives at risk to take advantage of the FG sponsored evacuation flights to be transported home.”
The minister disclosed that President Bola Tinubu approved an extension of the evacuation programme beyond the original June 30 deadline.
She noted that the fourth evacuation flight landed in Nigeria on July 3, while another aircraft is scheduled to depart for Johannesburg on Tuesday, July 7.
READ ALSO: Xenophobic Attacks: Nigeria Considering Retaliation Against South Africa — FG
“Another evacuation flight will leave for Johannesburg tomorrow Tuesday 7th July to bring home our citizens,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu said, adding that “the last evacuation flight is expected to arrive South Africa on 10th July.”
She urged Nigerians who have not decided whether to return home to carefully consider the risks of remaining in the country.
“Our Nationals are again, advised to weigh the risks regarding whether to remain or return.”
Appealing directly to those still undecided, the minister stressed that lives are more valuable than material possessions.
“For many still sitting on the fence, they should do well to note that properties and investments lost can be replaced, but not lives lost.”
She reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding Nigerians wherever they reside.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria remains committed to the safety and welfare of it’s citizens abroad, and will put all necessary measures in place to protect it.”