Tinubu Condemns Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa, Calls Intolerance Unacceptable

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has strongly condemned the recent xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa, describing such acts of intolerance as completely unacceptable.

Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Freetown, Sierra Leone, on Sunday, President Tinubu urged African leaders to speak with one voice against the attacks and ensure the matter is presented at the next African Union summit.

The President disclosed that the Nigerian government has already evacuated more than 1,490 Nigerian citizens from South Africa in seven batches and remains ready to take further steps to protect its citizens if necessary.

Tinubu stressed that South Africa should not forget the immense support and sacrifices made by African nations, including Nigeria, during the struggle against apartheid and the country’s liberation. He said the freedom South Africa enjoys today was achieved through the collective efforts of many African countries.

He called on ECOWAS and the African Union to send a strong message that xenophobia and attacks on fellow Africans have no place on the continent, insisting that such intolerance must be rejected under every circumstance.