Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has initiated diplomatic engagements with South African officials over growing xenophobic attacks on Nigerians residing in the country.
Obi, who arrived in South Africa on Friday for an international conference, said he used the opportunity to meet with Nigerians in Cape Town to obtain firsthand information on the challenges confronting them, reports The Nation.
In a statement posted on his X account yesterday, Obi disclosed that he subsequently held discussions with three South African ministers and political party leaders on issues bordering on immigration, regional cooperation and peaceful coexistence between citizens of both countries.
According to him, the meetings focused on addressing tensions involving African foreigners in South Africa, as well as broader concerns relating to migration, unemployment, economic hardship and security.
Obi said he met with Leon Schreiber, South Africa’s Minister of Home Affairs and a prominent member of the Democratic Alliance; Velenkosini Hlabisa, leader of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP); and Gayton McKenzie, who also leads the Patriotic Alliance (PA).
He described the talks as “open and productive,” noting that both sides emphasised the need for responsible leadership and peaceful engagement in resolving grievances.
Obi stated: “After speaking with Nigerians in Cape Town yesterday, I had constructive discussions this morning with three South African ministers and political party leaders concerning the ongoing issues related to immigration, regional collaboration, and promoting peaceful coexistence between our nations.”
He added that the discussions centred on “the pressing issues impacting both countries — especially those concerning migration, economic difficulties, youth unemployment, security challenges, and the growing tensions faced by African foreigners in South Africa.”
The former Anambra State governor stressed that Nigeria and South Africa must deepen cooperation and sustain dialogue in order to strengthen relations and safeguard the rights and dignity of Africans across the continent.
“I strongly believe that Nigeria and South Africa, both significant nations on the continent, must enhance dialogue, increase cooperation, and pursue solutions rooted in justice, mutual respect, and adherence to the rule of law,” Obi said.
He further urged leaders and citizens of both countries to avoid violence, hate and provocation, insisting that disputes should be resolved through constitutional and democratic means.
“In these difficult times, both leaders and citizens need to exhibit responsible leadership, show compassion, and exercise restraint,” he stated.
“We collectively emphasised the need for law-abiding behaviour, the importance of avoiding violence, resisting hate or provocation, and allowing lawful institutions to handle grievances through democratic and constitutional means, regardless of the challenges we encounter.”
Obi also underscored the importance of African unity and economic inclusion, saying the continent’s future depends on cooperation and respect for human dignity.
“The future of Africa relies on our capacity to foster unity, promote economic inclusivity, invest in our communities, and uphold the dignity of every African, regardless of their location,” he added.
