Xenophobia: Peter Obi Meets South African Cabinet Ministers, Preaches Peace, Unity
By Sunday Etuka
Former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi today met with three South African cabinet ministers and party leaders in Cape Town over immigration tensions, youth unemployment, and the safety of African foreigners living in South Africa.
The meetings, which followed a seperate engagement with members of the Nigerian Community in Cape Town yesterday, brought togther Home Affairs Minister, Leon Schreiber of the Democratic Alliance, Minister of Cooperative Governance, and Traditional Affairs, Valenkosini Hlabisa, and Ministsr of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie.
Mr. Obi, in a statement posted on his X handle on Saturday, described the conversations as productive and candid, with discussions centred on migration pressures, economic strains, security concerns, and the rising hostility faced by foreign nationals in South Africa.
All parties called for calm and restraint, stressing the need for law-abiding conduct, non-violence, and rejection of hate and provocation. They advised that grieviances be channelled through democratic and constitutional institutions rather than through conflict.
“Nigeria and South Africa, both prominent African nations, must enhance dialogue, bolster cooperation, and seek solutions based on justice, mutual respect, and adherence to the rule of law,” Obi said, adding that “leaders and citizens alike need to demonstrate responsible leadership, compassion, and restraint.”
They concluded with a broader call for African solidarity, arguing that the continent’s progress depends on building unity, promoting economic inclusivity, investing in communities, and upholding the dignity of every African regardless of where they reside.
