Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has engaged South African ministers and political leaders in discussions aimed at addressing immigration concerns and rising tensions affecting Nigerians residing in the country.
Obi disclosed this during his visit to South Africa for an international conference, noting that the meetings followed consultations with Nigerians living in Cape Town over the challenges they face.
In a statement shared on his X account, Obi said he held talks with South Africa’s Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber; Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa; and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie.
He described the discussions as frank and constructive, focusing on migration, economic hardship, unemployment, security and the increasing tension surrounding African migrants in South Africa.
According to Obi, both Nigeria and South Africa must work closely to strengthen regional cooperation and build relationships founded on justice, mutual respect and the rule of law.
The former Anambra State governor stressed the need for responsible leadership and restraint from both citizens and political actors during difficult times.
“We collectively emphasised the need for law-abiding behaviour, the importance of avoiding violence, resisting hate or provocation and allowing lawful institutions to handle grievances through democratic and constitutional means,” he stated.
Obi further noted that Africa’s future would depend largely on the continent’s ability to promote unity, economic inclusion and the dignity of all Africans irrespective of where they reside.
In recent years, Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa have faced periodic hostility linked to xenophobic attacks, immigration disputes and socio-economic tensions.
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