Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what he described as a slow and inadequate response to renewed anti-immigrant tensions in South Africa.
In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku said it was embarrassing that Nigeria — widely regarded as Africa’s largest nation and a continental leader — appeared reactive while smaller African countries moved swiftly to protect their citizens.
The former vice president commended Ghana for quickly approving the evacuation of more than 300 distressed nationals following recent xenophobic threats in South Africa.
According to Atiku, Nigeria’s response lacked the urgency, compassion, and leadership expected from a country of its diplomatic standing.
“It is deeply troubling that Nigeria, a country that prides itself as the leader of the Black world and the giant of Africa, once again found itself reacting instead of leading in a moment of continental crisis,” he said.
He noted that while other African nations promptly issued travel advisories and activated safety measures for their citizens, Nigeria was slow to respond despite growing concerns over the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa.
Atiku questioned why the Federal Government only began discussing repatriation efforts after pressure mounted and other countries had already taken decisive action.
“Yes, the government has now spoken. Yes, repatriation talks have been mentioned. But the critical question remains: why did it take external pressure and the decisive action of others before Nigeria found its voice?” he asked.
The former vice president further stated that Nigerians in South Africa have repeatedly faced intimidation, attacks, harassment, and destruction of businesses over the years, while government reactions have largely remained limited to diplomatic statements and consultations.
“A government’s first obligation is the protection of its citizens — wherever they may be. A government that waits until other nations have taken the lead before acting sends a dangerous signal: that the lives of its citizens are negotiable,” Atiku added.
He described it as humiliating that Ghana, despite having fewer diplomatic resources and citizens abroad, demonstrated stronger leadership and compassion during the crisis.
Atiku urged the Federal Government to move beyond what he called “half-measures” by issuing stronger travel advisories, activating evacuation plans for willing Nigerians, intensifying diplomatic engagement with South African authorities, and mobilising the African Union to address recurring xenophobic violence across the continent.
“Africa cannot continue to preach unity while tolerating periodic persecution of fellow Africans. And Nigeria cannot continue to posture as a continental leader while behaving like a reluctant observer,” he stated.
He also called on Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to demonstrate greater urgency and competence in safeguarding Nigerians abroad.
