Pic: Barr Ifeanyi Ejiofor
Renowned human rights lawyer has accused the South African government of failing to adequately protect Nigerians living in the country amid recurring xenophobic attacks.
In his latest Midweek Musings, Ejiofor urged African leaders and the African Union to hold South Africa accountable for protecting the lives, property and rights of all lawful residents, regardless of nationality.
He argued that while political controversies in Nigeria often dominate public attention and quickly fade, the safety of Nigerians abroad deserves urgent focus.
Ejiofor expressed concern over reported remarks by a South African government spokesperson regarding properties allegedly abandoned by Nigerians during xenophobic attacks, describing the comments as insensitive and inconsistent with the values of a constitutional democracy.
He cited international legal instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, stressing that South Africa has a legal obligation to protect all residents from discrimination and violence.
The lawyer also recalled Nigeria’s significant support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle, saying lawful Nigerians should never face intimidation or discrimination because of their nationality.
He called on African leaders to demonstrate that Pan-Africanism is more than a slogan by ensuring justice, equality and protection for every African living on the continent.
Tags: South Africa, Xenophobia, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Nigerians Abroad, African Union
