Oluwo urges sanctions on South Africa over xenophobic attacks

The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, has condemned the xenophobic attacks in South Africa, urging President Bola Tinubu to impose heavy sanctions.

Oluwo described South Africa as “a shame to Africa,” stressing that any attack on Nigerians or any black person should be seen as a collective assault on the continent and resisted accordingly.

The monarch’s statement came on the heels of ongoing xenophobic violence in South Africa targeting foreign nationals, including Nigerians, with reported cases of killings, looting, and destruction of businesses.

Two Nigerians have reportedly been killed in the attacks, a development that has drawn condemnation from governments and regional bodies.

Oluwo, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Alli, on Wednesday, said the killing of Nigerians and destruction of their businesses had brought international embarrassment to Africa.

Oba Akanbi called on the President to adopt reprisal measures by recalling Nigeria’s ambassador and summoning South Africa’s envoy in Nigeria for an explanation.

He also urged Africans, particularly Nigerians, to stage peaceful protests at South African embassies in their respective countries in condemnation of the attacks.

Oluwo said, “South Africa has brought international embarrassment to itself by attacking Nigerians and their businesses. Africans are free to stay anywhere on African soil. There is no justification to attack any African on African soil.

“Africans must come together at this material time to stop the madness in South Africa by imposing heavy sanctions, including recalling their respective ambassadors. Specifically, President Bola Tinubu should impose heavy sanctions on South Africa.

“To stop the recurring attacks and attempted expropriation in South Africa, a lasting solution should be considered through the collective efforts of African countries.

“All African countries should hold an emergency dialogue and invite South Africa’s leadership for an explanation. An ultimatum may be issued to end the xenophobic attacks.

“The open manifestation of hatred for a fellow black man calls for urgent action. South African citizens are not bigger than all Africans. A decisive measure should be taken. Nigeria, as the giant of Africa, should take the lead.

“The attacks on fellow Africans who fought against apartheid imposed by white men are an act of ingratitude. An attack on Africans on African soil is an attack on Africa itself. It is unwise for Africa to destroy itself. We should never live below our expectations.”(Punch)