Fearing reprisal, S’Africa shuts Nigerian embassy
South Africa has closed its consulate in Lagos as a result of series of protests over the xenophobic attacks on immigrants in its country.
Sam Monaisa, South African consul general in Nigeria, confirmed the development in a statement to the South African Business Forum, saying the closure would remain in effect till Thursday if the security situation improves.
When TheCable visited one of the country’s visa application centres on Plot 110 Admiral Ayinla Way in Lekki Lagos, security men were seen turning back intending visa applicants.
However, Monaisa warned the forum’s members to stay alert and not move around unnecessarily.
Maintaining that the situation in South Africa has been brought under control, Monaisa alleged that Nigerians were blowing the issue out of proportion, particularly on social media.
He also warned South African citizens to be mindful of their movement in order to avoid falling victim to reprisals.
“Monaisa alleged that Nigerians were blowing the issue out of proportion, particularly on social media.” What an insensitive statement! Can you tell that to the families of those who have been killed by your senseless kinsmen, or whose businesses have been destroyed by the unwarranted display of hatred? This envoy should be told in clear, unmistakable terms to please respect peoples sensibilities and not stoke the fire of reprisals by outraged Nigerians who cannot fathom the reason for this senseless display of madness.
The only best solution to the ongoing south Africa senseless killing other African is through diplomatic,and advise Nigerian demonstrators not to harm any south African in Nigeria as two wrong never make a right.South African in the country were not involve in the senseless killing, but only the criminal violators killing African in south Africa .Very unfortunate some hundred Nigerian had died in south Africa over the years. let us behave very sensible,and maturely and allow both government handle the situation to the very end. . .