By Paul Joseph
Abike Dabiri-Erewa has disclosed that South Africa is yet to sign a proposed Memorandum of Understanding aimed at protecting Nigerians and other Africans from xenophobic attacks, despite six years of negotiations.
Speaking during an X Space conversation organised by The Progressive NG on the theme, “Leveraging Diaspora Strength for Nigeria’s Next Phase of Growth,” the NiDCOM boss said the proposed agreement, known as the Early Warning Signal Mechanism, would compel South African authorities to respond swiftly whenever Nigerians are threatened during crises or xenophobic violence.
According to her, the agreement remains unsigned even as Nigerian officials continue to pressure South Africa to finalise the process.
“We have an MoU with South Africa, the early warning signal mechanism. They have to sign it. The minister is putting pressure on them to sign this MoU. It’s been there for about six years,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
She explained that once signed, the pact would place a binding responsibility on South African authorities to protect Nigerians whenever tensions arise.
“And if they sign it, what it means is that it is binding. When you hear there’s a crisis, you have to save our people, rescue them. If a Nigerian is committing a crime, you know what to do with them,” she added.
Dabiri-Erewa further revealed that Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has sustained diplomatic engagements with her South African counterpart to ensure the agreement is concluded.
She also appealed to Nigerians residing in South Africa to remain calm and avoid actions capable of escalating tensions.
“In the meantime, we urge our people to stay calm, don’t look for trouble. If you can’t go to your shop, just manage,” she advised.
The NiDCOM chairman added that Ghana has requested that the issue of xenophobia in South Africa be tabled for discussion at the next meeting of the African Union as African leaders seek a broader solution to recurring attacks on foreign nationals.
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