The Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Yusuf Dantalle, has described the ongoing xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address Nigeria’s internal leadership and governance challenges.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Dantalle who also serves as the National Chairman of the Allied People’s Movement (APM) expressed deep concern over the development. He emphasized that the situation should serve as a powerful catalyst for Nigerians to prioritize rebuilding their nation and ensuring the democratic election of capable leaders.
A Call to Action for National Reconstruction
Dantalle urged citizens to look inward, noting that a prosperous and stable Nigeria would naturally command respect across the continent. Historically regarded as the “Giant of Africa,” Nigeria is expected to lead by example rather than have its citizens face hostility abroad.
“What is happening the xenophobic attack on Nigerians in South Africa and in some other African countries is a call for us to come back and fix Nigeria,” Dantalle remarked during the interview. “Nigerians should elect who they want to fix Nigeria, not anybody deciding what should be done. Africa is supposed to look up to Nigeria as a big brother.”
Escalating Tensions and Emergency Evacuations
The latest wave of xenophobic violence in South Africa has sparked widespread fear and displacement among foreign nationals. Some local groups have accused immigrants of exacerbating economic challenges, including high unemployment rates, poverty, and rising crime levels.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, several African governments have initiated emergency evacuation protocols to protect their citizens. The Nigerian Federal Government has already taken action, airlifting an initial batch of 258 Nigerians back home to safety.