Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately suspend his ongoing foreign trips and return to Nigeria to address the reported killings and attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.
In a post shared on her X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, Ezekwesili criticized the President’s decision to embark on visits to France, Kenya, and Rwanda amid the crisis, describing it as a serious lapse in leadership.
“Return home, Mr. President. The Nigerian government must stop treating the killing and attacks on Nigerians in South Africa as routine diplomacy,” she wrote.
She argued that leaving the country at a time when Nigerians abroad are reportedly under threat reflects a lack of urgency and responsibility.
Ezekwesili further urged the Federal Government to demand a time-bound justice framework from South Africa, covering investigation, prosecution, restitution, and transparent public reporting. According to her, anything short of this would embolden perpetrators and sustain a culture of impunity.
She also called for a strengthening of Nigeria’s consular protection systems across its foreign missions, stressing the need for clear channels through which citizens abroad can report threats, access emergency support, and receive prompt government intervention.
Referencing Nigeria’s historic role during the anti-apartheid struggle, Ezekwesili noted that repeated attacks on Nigerians undermine a shared legacy of solidarity.
“Nigeria did not stand aside during apartheid. Through the Southern Africa Relief Fund, citizens contributed to the liberation struggle, while the country provided financial, diplomatic, and moral support to the African National Congress,” she said.
She urged President Tinubu to leverage this history in engaging South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, insisting that firm and decisive action from Nigeria would compel stronger measures to protect Nigerian citizens.
