Nigeria Seeks Compensation for Citizens Attacked in South Africa

• The Nigerian government is pursuing compensation for its citizens affected by recent attacks in South Africa.
• A data collection process has been initiated to determine the quantum of losses suffered by affected individuals.
• Nigeria will continue negotiations with South Africa while retaining other options should diplomatic efforts fail.
• The government emphasizes that every Nigerian, regardless of immigration status, deserves protection under the law.
• Diplomatic efforts are underway to strengthen engagement and prevent further violence.

The President agreed with me that it is Afrophobic and that Africa must unite in ensuring that we put an end to this spiral of violence.

The Nigerian government has initiated efforts to secure compensation for its citizens affected by recent attacks in South Africa. According to Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Sola Enikanolaiye, the government is pursuing diplomatic channels to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa. Enikanolaiye disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had directed him to brief the president on commitments secured from South Africa, including activating an early warning mechanism and the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission. The minister also updated the president on the evacuation of approximately 1,490 Nigerians from South Africa following the attacks.

The government's data collection process for Nigerians who lost property during the attacks is a crucial step in determining compensation claims. Enikanolaiye explained that a form has been designed to be filled by affected individuals, which will help the government assess the quantum of losses suffered. This approach is in line with international best practices and ensures that claims are based on verifiable data. The minister emphasized that Nigeria would continue negotiations with South Africa while retaining other options should diplomatic efforts fail.

The attacks in South Africa have sparked concerns about the safety of Nigerians living abroad, particularly in countries with a history of xenophobic violence. Enikanolaiye's remarks highlight the need for African countries to collectively address Afrophobic tendencies and work towards ending the spiral of violence. The government's efforts to secure compensation for affected citizens also underscore the importance of protecting human rights, regardless of immigration status. As Enikanolaiye noted, 'whether they are regular or irregular, they are human beings.'

Lawyers advising Nigerian clients affected by the South Africa attacks should be aware of the government's data collection process and potential compensation claims, which may impact their clients' rights and obligations.

Source: Original reporting via Vanguard