The South Africa government has reiterated its stance against compensating Nigerians who left property behind.
South Africa’s Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, affirmed the government’s position, maintaining that there are no plans to compensate affected Nigerians for homes, businesses or other assets left behind during the unrest.
Her comments followed remarks by Nigeria’s Acting High Commissioner to South Africa, Temitope Ajayi, who revealed that the Nigerian government was exploring possible compensation for citizens who lost or abandoned their properties after being evacuated.
Speaking at a media briefing, Ntshavheni dismissed the proposal, insisting that the South African government had no obligation to compensate Nigerians for properties left behind during their repatriation.
She said all legally owned properties in the country are registered with the relevant authorities. While structures in informal settlements are regarded as illegal and are not recognised under the law.
Ntshavheni further urged affected migrants with legally acquired properties to sell them through South Africa’s property market instead of expecting compensation from the government.
The minister’s remarks raised criticisms as Former Kaduna Central senator Shehu Sani criticised the minister’s remarks, expressing surprise at what he described as the government’s hardline stance.
Reacting on social media, Sani wrote:
“This is from a SENIOR Government official and NOT a thug from the streets.”
However, Ntshavheni stood by her comments, insisting she had nothing to retract, while affirming her stance.
She responded:
“I didn’t stutter. Any form of property obtained illegally won’t be compensated for,”
The Minister’s remarks followed the recent escalating anti-immigrant protests and vigilante groups enforced on June 30 deadline for foreigners to leave the country, which marked the third batch of repatriation of Nigerians.
By Musekir Faisat OmolaraÂ
