TDFormer Nigerian Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has issued a strongly worded public memo to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, demanding that he abandon his ongoing foreign trips and return home to address the escalating violence against Nigerians in South Africa.
In her statement, Ezekwesili condemned what she described as a “total absence of leadership” in Tinubu’s decision to embark on a three-nation tour of France, Kenya, and Rwanda.
Meanwhile, Nigerians are being killed and harassed in South Africa.
“Mr President Tinubu, it is a total absence of leadership to set out on a three-nation junket while the bodies of our citizens lay slain in South Africa,” she wrote.
Recurring Attacks on Nigerians
Ezekwesili highlighted the recurring pattern of killings, harassment, looting, and intimidation of Nigerians in South Africa.
She stressed that these incidents can no longer be treated as routine diplomatic matters.
She accused the Nigerian government of failing to value the lives and dignity of its citizens abroad.
The former Finance Minister criticized the government’s response of issuing advisories, summoning envoys, and evacuating some citizens.
She insisted that Nigerians in South Africa deserve “measurable protection, not recycled outrage.”
Concrete Demands
Ezekwesili urged the Federal Government to demand and publish a full account from the South African authorities, including:
- Reported attacks, injuries, and deaths
- Destroyed businesses
- Arrests and prosecutions of suspects
- Compensation claims and unresolved cases
She further called for a time-bound justice framework from the South African government that ensures investigation, prosecution, restitution, and public reporting.
Historical Context
Drawing on Nigeria’s role in the anti-apartheid struggle, Ezekwesili reminded South Africa of the solidarity Nigerians once showed.
She recalled contributing to the Southern Africa Relief Fund as a student, and Nigeria’s financial, diplomatic, and moral support to the African National Congress during apartheid.
“Nigeria did not stand aside during apartheid… That history cannot be erased.
“But today, it is being dishonored with the slain body of our citizens killed on the streets of South Africa,” she lamented.
Call to Action
Ezekwesili demanded that Tinubu return home immediately and fulfill his constitutional duty as Commander-in-Chief to protect Nigerian citizens.
She warned that failure to defend Nigerians abroad further weakens the government’s legitimacy.
“Nigerian lives must matter everywhere, at home and abroad and especially now in South Africa.
“Enough, Nigeria Government! Enough, South African Government!” she declared.
The memo has sparked debate across political and civic circles.
Many Nigerians echo Ezekwesili’s call for stronger government action to safeguard citizens abroad.
