Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has committed N41 million to support 41 Edo State indigenes evacuated from South Africa following a fresh wave of xenophobic violence that left them displaced and stripped of their belongings. Okpebholo assured each returnee of N1 million to cover immediate accommodation needs, promising the funds would be disbursed within 24 hours.
Governor's Assurance and Immediate Support
As reported by The Punch, the governor made the pledge on Monday, July 13, 2026, while welcoming the returnees at the Festival Hall of Government House in Benin City. He stated, "Between now and tomorrow, you will receive that money, so you will not be stranded. There is no place better than home. Nobody will chase you away from here. We have peace here. Edo is safe, and Nigeria is safe."
Soft Loans and Reintegration Efforts
Okpebholo also announced that the state government would extend soft loans to returnees who wish to establish businesses, framing the intervention as a long-term reintegration effort rather than a one-off gesture. He said, "Your success begins today. Many of you possess knowledge and skills in different areas. Once you identify what you want to do, come to us. We will give you a soft loan to start with because we want you to fully reintegrate into society."
Governor Urges Returnees to Focus on the Future
According to Channels Television, the governor urged the evacuees to prioritise rebuilding their futures over lamenting material losses suffered during the attacks. He added, "They may have taken everything away from you, but your life is more important than the things they took. As a government, we will continue to support our people wherever they are. If they are in distress, we will rescue them and ensure they do not go through such experiences again."
Returnees Express Gratitude and Call for Civic Duty
Speaking on behalf of the evacuees, Riches Unubun thanked both the Edo State and Federal Governments for coordinating their safe return. Unubun called on his fellow returnees to demonstrate civic appreciation by registering to vote.
Similar Pledge by Imo Governor
Recall that Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma also donated N1 million to each of the indigenes who were among those evacuated from South Africa to Nigeria. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the CEO of NiDCOM, announced the development during a press conference on Thursday, June 11, 2026. The NiDCOM boss also announced other donations from private organisations and government agencies for the embattled Nigerians.
Senate Rejects Calls to Seize South African Companies' Profits
Meanwhile, Legit.ng also reported that the Nigerian Senate rejected calls to use South African company profits to compensate xenophobic attack victims. Senator Oshiomhole advocated for Nigerian compensation, citing the South African minister's refusal. The calls for nationalisation of South African firms in Nigeria met resistance in the Senate.
