Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has stepped into growing immigration tensions involving Nigerians in South Africa, holding high-level talks with key South African ministers in a move aimed at easing concerns among Nigerian residents.
Obi, who is in Cape Town for an international conference, met with members of the Nigerian community to hear firsthand the immigration challenges and rising anxieties they are facing.
In a statement shared on his X handle on Saturday, Obi disclosed that he later held “constructive and frank” discussions with three South African ministers and political leaders on migration, regional cooperation, security concerns and the need for peaceful coexistence.
The former Anambra governor met with Leon Schreiber, Velenkosini Hlabisa and Gayton McKenzie.
According to Obi, the talks focused on pressing issues affecting both nations, including migration pressures, economic hardship, youth unemployment, security challenges and growing tensions involving African migrants in South Africa.
He stressed that Nigeria and South Africa must deepen dialogue and pursue solutions anchored on justice, mutual respect and the rule of law.
Obi also called for calm, urging both leaders and citizens to reject violence, avoid provocation and allow democratic institutions to resolve grievances.
“The future of Africa depends on our ability to strengthen unity, expand economic opportunities and protect the dignity of every African, regardless of where they live,” he said.
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