By Our Reporter
Alhaji Kashim Shettima, Vice has condemned xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa, declaring that Nigeria will no longer tolerate the dehumanisation or mistreatment of its citizens.
Shettima made the position known on Sunday in Luanda, Angola, shortly before departing for Nigeria after representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 21st Extraordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU).
Speaking to journalists, the Vice President said Nigeria remained committed to resolving concerns with South Africa through dialogue and peaceful engagement but would not remain silent whenever the safety and dignity of Nigerians were threatened.
He said Nigeria played a significant role in the struggle for the liberation of Southern African countries and expressed disappointment that Nigerians were now being subjected to humiliation in South Africa.
“Those whose palm kernels were cracked by benevolent spirits should learn to be humble,” Shettima said, stressing that Nigeria and its citizens had made sacrifices during the liberation struggle in Southern Africa.
He added that the Nigerian government and people would no longer accept situations where Nigerians were dehumanised or subjected to unacceptable treatment.
The Vice President, however, stressed that Nigeria preferred “very robust conversations” with South African authorities and would continue to pursue diplomatic engagement to address the concerns.
Shettima urged South African authorities to ensure that the enforcement of immigration policies did not violate the rights, dignity and safety of Nigerians and other African nationals living in the country.
He said Nigeria would continue to make its position clear whenever situations that threatened the welfare of its citizens occurred, while working towards resolving such issues peacefully.
The Vice President subsequently departed Luanda for Nigeria after concluding his representation of President Tinubu at the AU summit.
