‘We Stood for Them During Apartheid’ — Yoruba Union Accuses Tinubu Of Inaction Over Alleged Killings Of Nigerians In South Africa

Ikeja, Lagos State– The Yoruba socio-cultural group, Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing him of failing to respond decisively to renewed attacks, killings, and harassment of Nigerians living in South Africa.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the group condemned brutal killings, harassment, and destruction of properties belonging to Nigerians, carried out by South African citizens.

The statement was signed by the Convener of the group, Olusola Badero, and released through its Home Director, Princess Balogun.

The group expressed frustration over the Nigerian government’s silence, warning that public anger is mounting.

“Don’t allow things to escalate before you take action,” the Yoruba Union said. “Nigerians are boiling and patient, but their patience will soon be exhausted once no action is taken to stop the killings and attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa.”

Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá called on President Tinubu to take immediate and concrete measures, including the shutdown of South African-owned businesses operating in Nigeria, specifically naming telecommunications giant MTN Group and media company MultiChoice Group.

“The madness going on in South Africa must be stopped. President Tinubu should talk to President Cyril Ramaphosa to put a stop to xenophobia in South Africa, or Nigerians will retaliate in multiples,” the group warned.

Yoruba Union accused the South African government of failing to uphold international human rights standards, citing Article 3 of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), which affirms that “everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.”

According to the group, the attacks are being driven by resentment against Nigerians and other African nationals who are perceived to be economically successful.

“South Africans are targeting Nigerians and other African nationals who are excelling in their businesses,” they stated.

“Instead of holding their government accountable, they resort to attacking innocent Nigerians who are lawfully doing their businesses.”

It added, “Nigerians did not take their jobs; rather, they created more jobs and wealth for South African people.”

The group also urged President Tinubu to personally visit South Africa to address the situation and warn of the diplomatic and economic consequences of continued attacks on Nigerians and other African citizens.

Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá stated that continued violence could provoke reprisals attack in Nigeria and other African countries.

“If the attacks and killings do not stop, Nigerians will have no other options than to start retaliating, and if that should happen, South Africa will be the one to lose in a big way,” they added.

However, the group advised Nigerians residing in South Africa to prioritise their safety.

“We urge all Nigerians living in South Africa to please stay safe or find all means to return to Nigeria if the Tinubu government fails to take drastic actions.”