The Nigerian Mission in South Africa has condemned the renewed xenophobic attack on Nigerians in that country.
The Consul General of Nigeria in Johannesburg, South Africa, Mr Godwin Adama said this in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.
Adams said 10 shops owned by Nigerians were razed down in attack that was launched by youths on Nigerians living Johannesburg on Sunday.
”On Oct. 21, a group of South African youths mobilised to attack Nigerians in the mainly black neighborhoods of Hilbrow and Berea in Johanesburg.
”The group which had earlier carried placards to demonstrate against rising crimes and drugs in the country, regrouped in the night to attack and loot shops of Nigerians, burning about 10 shops and setting them ablaze.
”Although no life was lost, the damage to Nigerian shops and properties is grave,” he said.
He said that calmness had returned to the area as the case had been reported at the Hilbrow police station.
”We condemn such attacks we call on authorities to arrest and try any citizen, including Nigerians who run foul of the law.
”Also, those involved in such attacks should be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
”We are also appealing for restraint to avoid further attacks while we also condemn activities of Nigerians involved in the drug business which is done in public glare in the areas.
”The youth believed that police is not doing much to discourage the drug trade and are taking laws into their hands which is condemnable,” he said.
He said that the ongoing judicial trial of a Nigerian pastor, Timothy Omotoso, accused of raping minors in his church might have also added to public outcry of emotions against Nigerians.
He said that the unnecessary public trial in media of the pastor had wiped up serious emotions and condemnation on the issue.
He said that the mission was in touch with the police and other law enforcement agencies to stem the tide of attacks while the mission is cooperating with Nigerians to discourage crime among them.
He said that the police had assured the mission of protecting Nigerians in the area from further attacks.