Distinguished Senator Ajagunnla Olubiyi Fadeyi, Senator representing Osun Central Senatorial District, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment, and a Senior Executive Fellow in Harvard Kennedy School, has strongly condemned the renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa, describing the attacks as barbaric, inhumane, and unacceptable in a continent that should be united by the ideals of African brotherhood and solidarity.
In a statement made available to journalists, Senator Fadeyi expressed deep concern over the recurring violence against innocent Africans living and working in South Africa. He noted that no individual should be subjected to intimidation, violence, or discrimination simply because of their nationality.
The Senator commended the prompt intervention of the Federal Government of Nigeria through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon.Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, OON, for facilitating the evacuation of some stranded Nigerians from South Africa.
While appreciating these efforts, Senator Fadeyi urged the Federal Government to intensify its response by ensuring the immediate evacuation of all remaining Nigerians who are willing to return home without further delay. According to him, the safety and welfare of Nigerian citizens, irrespective of where they reside, must remain a top priority of the government.
He also appealed to the Federal Government to establish comprehensive rehabilitation and reintegration programmes for the returnees, many of whom have suffered physical, emotional, and psychological trauma as a result of the xenophobic attacks. Such support, he said, would help them rebuild their lives and restore their dignity.
The Distinguished Senator further assured that indigenes of Osun State who return to Nigeria as a result of the unfortunate attacks would not be abandoned. He pledged that those willing to acquire vocational skills or learn a trade would be rehabilitated and assisted to become self-reliant. He noted that empowering the victims through skills acquisition and entrepreneurship support would enable them to rebuild their lives with dignity and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of the state.
Senator Fadeyi further called on the South African Government to take decisive action against the perpetrators of the attacks and implement effective measures to prevent future occurrences. He stressed that those responsible must be brought to justice to demonstrate the government’s commitment to protecting all residents regardless of nationality.
The lawmaker reiterated his belief in peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and stronger cooperation among African nations, urging all stakeholders to promote unity rather than hatred and violence across the continent.
By Omotayo Babalola
The Publisher of Igbomina Today Magazine, Historian, Political Analyst, Public Commentator, and Community Development Advocate
