Presidential aspirant under the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has engaged South African political leaders, including ministers, regarding allegations of xenophobia against Nigerians in South Africa.
Obi had engaged the Nigerian community in Cape Town in discussions about the recent challenges affecting African expatriates in South Africa on Friday.
Reflecting on his engagement with South African ministers and political party leaders on Saturday in a post on X (formerly Twitter), Obi disclosed that the meeting focused on ongoing challenges related to immigration, regional collaboration, and fostering peaceful coexistence between both nations.
He highlighted his engagements, including meetings with the South African Minister of Home Affairs and a prominent figure in the Democratic Alliance, Dr. Leon Schreiber; the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and leader of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), Mr. Velenkosini Hlabisa; and the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture and leader of the Patriotic Alliance (PA), Mr. Gayton McKenzie.
Obi noted that the conversations were productive and candid, focusing on the current challenges affecting both countries — particularly those related to migration, economic strain, youth unemployment, security issues, and the rising tensions faced by African foreigners in South Africa.
He described Nigeria and South Africa as prominent African nations and urged both countries to enhance dialogue, strengthen cooperation, and seek solutions based on justice, mutual respect, and adherence to the rule of law.
Obi argued that, in challenging times, leaders and citizens alike need to demonstrate responsible leadership, compassion, and restraint.
He also revealed that the conversations focused on the importance of law-abiding behaviour, avoiding violence, resisting hate or provocation, and allowing lawful institutions to address grievances through democratic and constitutional processes, regardless of the challenges faced.
He added that Africa’s progress hinges on nations’ ability to promote unity, foster economic inclusivity, invest in communities, and uphold the dignity of every African, regardless of where they live.
