Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has strongly condemned the recurring attacks on Nigerians and their businesses in South Africa, calling on the South African government to fully compensate victims whose properties and investments have been destroyed over the years.
Kalu made the call on the floor of the Senate while contributing to a motion sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong on the safety and welfare of Nigerians residing in South Africa. The former Abia State governor expressed disappointment over what he described as the unfair treatment of Nigerians despite the enormous sacrifices Nigeria made in support of South Africa’s struggle against apartheid.
According to Kalu, Nigeria committed over 15 billion dollars, alongside substantial diplomatic, financial and human resources, towards the liberation of South Africa, making the continued attacks on Nigerians difficult to justify.
“It is unfortunate that Nigerians are being treated this way despite all Nigeria sacrificed for South Africa. We must demand compensation for Nigerians whose assets have been destroyed,” Kalu declared.
The senator also criticised South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, expressing disappointment that such attacks had continued under his leadership. Kalu recalled his longstanding relationship with Ramaphosa, describing him as a fellow businessman who, according to him, used to visit him in Lagos before assuming the presidency. He said he expected stronger leadership and decisive action from the South African government to protect Nigerians and other foreign nationals living and doing business in the country.
Kalu commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs for adopting a diplomatic approach in addressing the situation, describing their intervention on behalf of affected Nigerians as timely and responsible. He urged the Federal Government to sustain its engagement with the South African authorities while pursuing justice through international legal channels where necessary.
“We should continue on the path of caution. We are not going to respond forcefully. We will engage through dialogue, the international community and international courts,” Kalu stated.
The senator maintained that while diplomacy remains the best path to resolving the crisis, the South African government must be held accountable and ensure that Nigerians who suffered losses receive full compensation for their destroyed businesses and assets.
