Nigerians criticize federal government's 'weak' response to xenophobic attacks in South Africa, citing Ghana's proactive measures
via Punch Nigeria5 min read
Nigerians at home and abroad are expressing outrage over the Federal Government's handling of recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, contrasting it with Ghana's swift diplomatic intervention. The criticism follows an advisory from the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission NiDCOM on Friday, urging Nigerians in South Africa to stay indoors and temporarily close businesses due to anticipated violence. This warning was prompted by an official circular from the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg, dated April 22, 2026, detailing violent demonstrations in East London, Cape Town, Durban, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal, which resulted in looting, property damage, and injuries. NiDCOM also indicated planned protests in Gauteng Province between April 27 and 29, 2026, aimed at pressuring the South African government regarding foreign nationals. Many Nigerians view the advisory as a reflection of 'passive diplomacy,' arguing that it places the burden on victims rather than confronting perpetrators. They highlight Ghana's response to a xenophobic incident involving one of its citizens, where Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Ablakwa, announced the government would relocate the victim, Emmanuel Asamoa, and engaged directly with South African authorities, demanding accountability. Foreign policy experts and civil society actors describe Nigeria's approach as reactive and lacking strategic depth, warning that it could erode Nigeria's influence on the continent. Emerging insight
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadU.S. President Donald Trump has released CCTV footage and images of the suspect involved in a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C. The footage reportedly shows the suspect running into the Washington Hilton ballroom, bypassing security. Trump also shared images of a shirtless man, believed to be the suspected gunman, restrained in the foyer. Describing the individual as a “would-be assassin,” Trump stated the suspect was heavily armed and breached a security checkpoint before being stopped. According to BBC reports, the president said the suspect “charged past a security checkpoint” with multiple weapons. He added that a law enforcement officer was shot but survived due to a bulletproof vest. The incident occurred on Saturday night, causing panic and the evacuation of officials, journalists, and guests. Authorities have confirmed the suspect is in custody, and investigations are ongoing.
Must ReadThe United States Secret Service has initiated an investigation into a shooting incident that took place in Washington during the annual White House Correspondents' Dinner at the Washington Hilton. The agency is collaborating with the Metropolitan Police Department to ascertain the details of the incident, which occurred near a security screening area and the main magnetometer checkpoint for guest screening. Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the United States Secret Service, confirmed on X that all protected individuals, including the president and first lady, were safe. One suspect has been apprehended, and authorities are evaluating the condition of those involved. Guglielmi stated that teams are actively investigating and gathering information, promising updates as more details emerge. The incident has prompted renewed concerns regarding security at significant public events in the US capital, with a review of procedures anticipated as the investigation progresses.
Must ReadUS President Donald Trump described the suspect in a shooting incident at a Washington media gala as a "would-be assassin," stating the individual was heavily armed and breached security before being stopped. The incident occurred on Saturday night during the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton. Gunfire near a security checkpoint caused panic and led to the evacuation of officials, journalists, and guests. Trump said the suspect "charged past a security checkpoint" with multiple weapons, and one law enforcement officer was shot but survived due to a bulletproof vest. Secret Service agents quickly apprehended the suspect, and the president, first lady, and other high-profile attendees were safely escorted from the venue. Witnesses reported chaotic scenes. Trump also expressed concerns about the venue’s security. The event has been canceled and is expected to be rescheduled, with investigations ongoing into the suspect's motive and the security breach. The shooting has intensified scrutiny over security at high-profile public events in the US.
BreakingUS President Donald Trump and the First Lady were unharmed following a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C., on Saturday night. The United States Secret Service confirmed that a suspect has been taken into custody, with investigations ongoing in collaboration with local law enforcement. The shooting occurred near the main security screening area at the Washington Hilton, the event venue, where hundreds of journalists, politicians, and guests had gathered. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots shortly after 8:30 p.m., causing panic and leading to the swift evacuation of top officials, including Vice President J.D. Vance and cabinet members. President Trump praised security agencies for their quick and brave response, noting that the shooter had been apprehended. Organizers confirmed that the president would address the press and plans to possibly reschedule the event within 30 days. The White House Correspondents’ Dinner is an annual gathering celebrating press freedom in the United States. Authorities have not yet released full details about the suspect or possible casualties.