Some Nigerians stranded in South Africa following renewed xenophobic tensions have protested delays in evacuation arrangements, calling on authorities to accelerate efforts to return interested citizens to Nigeria.
The affected Nigerians staged a demonstration at the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria, expressing frustration over delays in repatriation flights and processing procedures.
According to a video shared online by News Central, the protesters were heard chanting, “We no go gree o, we wan go,” as they demanded quicker action from relevant authorities.
The protest comes amid ongoing evacuation efforts for Nigerians seeking to leave South Africa following renewed anti-immigration tensions and concerns over xenophobic attacks in parts of the country.
The demonstration highlights growing concerns among affected citizens who say they have remained uncertain about timelines for their return despite official assurances.
Recall that about two weeks ago, the first batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa arrived safely in Lagos.
The returnees, numbering 262, were transported aboard an evacuation flight operated by Air Peace as part of arrangements coordinated by the Federal Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant agencies.
The evacuees landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, where they were received by officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and security agencies.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government has assured Nigerians in South Africa that every citizen who has indicated interest in returning home will be evacuated before the June 30 deadline.
The assurance was given by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, through a statement issued by her Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Magnus Eze.
According to the minister, the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains committed to the safety, welfare and protection of Nigerians living abroad and will ensure that no willing returnee is left behind.
