South Africa has reaffirmed that it will not compensate Nigerians who abandoned businesses and other property while leaving the country following recent xenophobic attacks, despite Nigeria’s plans to seek redress for affected citizens.
Gatekeepers News reports that Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, South Africa’s Minister in the Presidency, maintained the government’s position after Temitope Ajayi, Nigeria’s acting High Commissioner to South Africa, disclosed that the Nigerian government was documenting properties left behind by evacuees as part of efforts to explore possible compensation.
Addressing the issue at a press briefing, Ntshavheni argued that legally owned properties in South Africa are officially registered and can be sold through the country’s property market. She added that structures located in informal settlements are regarded as illegal and therefore do not qualify for compensation. The minister also urged Nigerian authorities to provide information on locations allegedly used for drug-related activities in the country.
Her comments drew criticism from former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani, who described the remarks as unbecoming of a senior government official. Responding to the criticism, Ntshavheni insisted she had been clear in her earlier statement, saying, “I didn’t stutter,” while reiterating that South Africa would not compensate anyone for properties acquired illegally.
The exchange comes amid renewed diplomatic discussions between both countries following the evacuation of Nigerians affected by xenophobic violence, with Abuja continuing efforts to document losses suffered by its citizens even as Pretoria maintains its refusal to consider compensation claims.
