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Ohanaeze Ndigbo chieftain and former Deputy President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Lagos State, Chief Vitus Uzoh, has called on the Federal Government to urgently resume the evacuation of stranded Nigerians in South Africa as the deadline issued by anti-immigrant agitators for Nigerians and other African nationals to leave the country draws near.
In a statement made available to journalists, Chief Uzoh warned that any further delay in the evacuation exercise, which commenced with the successful return of the first batch of 258 Nigerians, could endanger the lives of those still awaiting evacuation.
According to findings, although President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved funding for four additional rescue flights following the first evacuation, the designated carrier, Air Peace, is yet to be mobilised for the operation.
Chief Uzoh appealed to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and other relevant government agencies to act with urgency to ensure the safe return of the stranded citizens.
He expressed concern over the welfare of Nigerians currently taking refuge at the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa, alleging that they are exposed to harsh weather conditions and other difficult circumstances while awaiting evacuation.
“The Federal Government should urgently complete the evacuation process to prevent any unfortunate incident. Upon their return, appropriate financial support should also be provided to enable the returnees rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society,” he said.
Chief Uzoh stressed that protecting the lives and welfare of Nigerians abroad remains a fundamental responsibility of the government and urged all relevant authorities to act without further delay.
