Vice President Kashim Shettima has warned that Nigeria will no longer accept the dehumanisation or mistreatment of Nigerians anywhere in the world.
Shettima condemns attacks on Nigerians
Shettima restated Nigeria’s opposition to xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.
The Vice President spoke in Luanda, Angola, on Monday, shortly before departing for Nigeria.
He had represented President Bola Tinubu at the 21st Extraordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU).
Speaking to newsmen, Shettima said Nigeria would not accept situations where its citizens face humiliation or other unacceptable treatment.
“But we believe in having very robust conversations with our South African brothers. We don’t want to overheat the polity, but once in a while, you have to make it very clear, vehemently clear, that certain situations are unacceptable, and we’ll work things out.”
Nigeria seeks dialogue with South Africa
Shettima said Nigeria remains committed to resolving its concerns with South Africa through dialogue and peaceful engagement.
He stressed that the government would continue to speak firmly whenever the safety and dignity of Nigerians come under threat.
“Those whose palm kernels were cracked by benevolent spirits should learn to be humble. We were part of the struggle for the liberation of our brothers and sisters in Southern Africa, and we feel personally pained that our people have been picked up for humiliation,” Shettima said.
Shettima urges protection of Nigerians
The Vice President condemned the xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks and called on South African authorities to protect lives.
He also urged the authorities to uphold human dignity while enforcing the country’s immigration policies.
Shettima departed Luanda for Abuja after representing President Tinubu at the AU meeting.
