Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu's administration for its slow and hesitant response to the recent xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerian citizens in South Africa. Atiku expressed disappointment, stating that the Nigerian government's reaction was sluggish compared to the swift actions taken by other African nations.
Atiku Condemns Tinubu's Handling of Crisis
In a statement issued on Sunday, May 17, 2026, by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described the administration's response as embarrassing and unacceptable. He noted that smaller countries like Ghana demonstrated greater urgency and leadership by approving the immediate evacuation of over 300 distressed citizens, while Nigeria appeared hesitant and reactive.
“A government’s first obligation is the protection of its citizens—wherever they may be. A government that waits until other nations have taken the lead before acting sends a dangerous signal: that the lives of its citizens are negotiable,” Atiku said.
Ghana's Decisive Action Contrasts with Nigeria's Hesitancy
Atiku underscored that Ghana, despite having fewer diplomatic resources and citizens abroad, projected stronger leadership and clearer compassion than Nigeria. He pointed out that when the first signs of danger emerged, smaller African nations acted with clarity, compassion, and urgency, issuing strong advisories and activating protective mechanisms for their nationals.
“But Nigeria, whose citizens have historically borne the brunt of xenophobic violence in South Africa, moved with the lethargy that has become the defining trademark of this administration,” Atiku added.
Call for Urgent Action by Foreign Ministry
The former vice president urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to abandon its habitual slow-footedness and demonstrate the urgency and competence Nigerians deserve, especially in matters of lives and national dignity. He emphasized that the protection of citizens abroad must be a top priority.
Recall that the Nigerian Government had summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to Abuja over the attacks on foreign nationals. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the meeting would address the mistreatment of Nigerian citizens and threats to bilateral relations.
Background of Xenophobic Violence
Nigerians living in South Africa have been directly affected by the escalating xenophobic violence, which has sparked official concern. In related developments, two Nigerians—Emmanuel and Andrew Ninikanwa—were killed in South Africa amid the tensions. The Consul-General demanded a thorough investigation into their deaths and warned against negative profiling of Nigerians as criminals.
Atiku's criticism adds to the growing pressure on the Tinubu administration to take decisive action to protect Nigerian citizens abroad and uphold the nation's diplomatic stature.
