President directs Ramaphosa’s delegation to Foreign Affairs Ministry, demands stronger action as tensions rise over fresh violence in South Africa

President Bola Tinubu has declined a planned meeting with a special delegation sent by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, as anger mounts over a fresh wave of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.

The delegation, led by South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, was instead received by Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, on the President’s directive.

At the meeting, Nigerian officials conveyed deep concern over the recurring violence, stressing that South African authorities must take more decisive steps to protect Nigerians and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

The Federal Government also pushed for the immediate ratification of an early warning mechanism aimed at preventing future xenophobic attacks. It emphasised that while criminal behaviour should be addressed through lawful means, no individual should be subjected to mob violence or extrajudicial actions.

In response, Lamola reaffirmed South Africa’s official stance against xenophobia, assuring Nigerian authorities that his government remains committed to safeguarding foreign nationals and strengthening diplomatic ties between both countries.

The diplomatic exchange comes amid escalating tensions following recent attacks that have reportedly led to loss of lives, destruction of businesses, and the evacuation of hundreds of Nigerians from South Africa.