Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what he described as a slow and ineffective response to renewed xenophobic tensions and threats against Nigerians living in South Africa.
In a statement issued on Sunday through his media aide, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku accused the Federal Government of reacting too late to the situation, arguing that Nigeria failed to demonstrate the urgency expected from a country regarded as a leading power on the African continent.
The former vice president compared Nigeria’s response with that of other African countries, particularly Ghana, which reportedly moved quickly to evacuate hundreds of its citizens affected by the unrest.
“It is deeply troubling that Nigeria, which prides itself as the giant of Africa, once again reacted instead of leading during a continental crisis,” Atiku said. “Other African countries acted swiftly to protect their citizens, while Nigeria responded only after intense public pressure.”
Atiku argued that the Federal Government’s diplomatic approach has remained largely reactive over the years despite repeated incidents of xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals in South Africa, including Nigerians.
He called on the Tinubu administration to adopt stronger measures to protect Nigerians abroad, including the immediate issuance of travel advisories, emergency evacuation plans for citizens willing to return home, and tougher diplomatic engagement with the South African government.
The former vice president also urged the Federal Government to push for stronger intervention from the African Union to address recurring xenophobic attacks across the continent.
According to him, Nigeria must move beyond what he described as a “tired diplomatic script” and demonstrate firmer leadership in defending the rights and safety of its citizens overseas.
The criticism comes amid renewed public concern over the safety of Nigerians living and doing business in South Africa, where previous waves of xenophobic violence have led to deaths, destruction of property, and diplomatic tensions between both countries.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had earlier acknowledged the situation and stated that consultations were ongoing regarding the welfare and possible evacuation of affected citizens. However, Atiku maintained that the government’s actions lacked urgency and decisive leadership.
“Africa cannot continue to preach unity while tolerating the persecution of fellow Africans,” Atiku stated. “Nigeria cannot continue to posture as a continental leader while behaving like a reluctant observer.”
