Ezekwesili Tackles Tinubu Over Attacks On Nigerians In South Africa

Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has issued a public memo to Bola Tinubu, urging him to halt his ongoing foreign trips and address the escalating attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.

In the statement dated 4 May 2026, Ezekwesili described the President’s trip to France, Kenya, and Rwanda as a “total absence of leadership” at a time when Nigerians abroad are reportedly facing violence, killings, and displacement.

She condemned what she called the Federal Government’s routine diplomatic response to the crisis, arguing that repeated statements, advisories, and limited evacuations fall far short of what is required.

“The recurring killing, harassment, looting and intimidation of Nigerians in South Africa is no longer a matter for routine diplomacy,” she said, warning that the situation reflects a deeper failure by the Nigerian state to protect its citizens.

Ezekwesili called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to demand detailed accountability from the Government of South Africa, including data on attacks, casualties, arrests, prosecutions, and compensation for victims.

She also urged Nigeria to push for a “time-bound justice framework” to ensure investigation, prosecution, restitution, and public reporting of cases involving Nigerians in South Africa.

Beyond immediate measures, she emphasised the need to strengthen Nigeria’s consular protection systems globally, ensuring that citizens abroad can easily access emergency support and clear government intervention.

The former minister further argued that the continued attacks undermine Nigeria’s historical role in supporting South Africa’s liberation struggle during apartheid, noting that Nigerians made financial and moral sacrifices through initiatives such as the Southern Africa Relief Fund.

“That history cannot be erased. But today, it is being dishonoured with the slain bodies of our citizens,” she stated.

Ezekwesili urged President Tinubu to engage directly with Cyril Ramaphosa to secure decisive action against the violence.

She called on the President to “return home” and fulfil his constitutional duty as Commander-in-Chief, stressing that Nigerian lives must be protected both at home and abroad.