Xenophobia: 258 Nigerians Attacked in South Africa Were Innocent

Xenophobia: 258 Nigerians Attacked in South Africa Were Innocent – NIDCOM
Dabiri-Erewa Condemns Xenophobic Attacks, Says Evacuees Were Not Criminals
Each of the 258 evacuees received ₦100,000 financial support as well as ₦50,000 airtime from MTN

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has stated that none of the 258 Nigerians recently evacuated from South Africa was involved in any criminal activity, insisting that they were victims of xenophobic attacks.

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Eko Hot Blog reports that the Chairperson of the commission, Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, made the clarification while speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday.

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According to her, the affected Nigerians were targeted not because of any offence they committed but because they were black immigrants living in South Africa.

Stranded Nigerians Cleared, Depart South Africa - NiDCOM — NiDCOM

Dabiri-Erewa described the situation as unfortunate, stressing that the returnees were victims of discrimination and hostility directed at foreign nationals.

“None of them committed any crime. The only crime they committed was the colour of their skin. They are black migrants in South Africa,” she said.

She commended President Bola Tinubu for facilitating their safe return to Nigeria and ensuring that support was provided for their reintegration.

The NIDCOM boss also acknowledged the role played by telecommunications company MTN in assisting the returnees.

According to her, each of the 258 evacuees received ₦100,000 financial support as well as ₦50,000 airtime to help them reconnect with family members and rebuild their lives upon arrival in Nigeria.

Dabiri-Erewa reiterated the commission’s commitment to protecting the interests and welfare of Nigerians living abroad while continuing to engage with relevant authorities on issues affecting citizens in the diaspora.