271 Nigerians evacuated from South Africa recounts xenophobic ordeal as Air Peace completes second rescue mission
Nigerians evacuated from South Africa on Tuesday have recounted harrowing experiences of xenophobic attacks, describing years of intimidation, threats, and insecurity that ultimately forced them to abandon their lives and return home.
The 271 stranded Nigerians arrived aboard an Air Peace Boeing 777-200 aircraft at the international wing of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, where they were received by officials of various federal government agencies.
The returnees landed at approximately 10:35 a.m. and were processed at the Cargo and Hajj Terminal before departing to reunite with their families.
The evacuation was coordinated by the Federal Government in response to renewed concerns over xenophobic tensions in parts of South Africa. Officials said the operation reflects Nigeria's continued commitment to protecting the welfare and safety of its citizens abroad.
Tuesday's flight brings the total number of Nigerians evacuated by Air Peace under the ongoing South Africa evacuation exercise to 533, following the successful airlift of 262 citizens on June 11.
Air Peace said the latest operation underscores the airline's readiness and commitment to support national emergency response efforts whenever required.
One of the returnees, Emmanuela Akagosu, described her experience in South Africa as traumatic, alleging that many Nigerians lived under constant fear of attack.
"My experience in South Africa was terrible. They are not accommodating and are jealous because Nigerians are hardworking and enterprising. They see us as a threat," she said.
Akagosu said Nigerians frequently received death threats, adding that many were warned to leave the country or face violent attacks.
"South Africa is not a safe place. They constantly told us to leave or be killed. The last time they attacked the complex where I lived, I was fortunate not to be at home. After that, I knew my life was no longer safe, so I decided to leave," she said.
She revealed that she returned to Nigeria with only two boxes, leaving behind all her belongings.
"I lost everything I owned in South Africa. I came back with just two boxes. Getting legal documents there is also extremely difficult because permits are rarely issued, even after applying and waiting for a long time. I will advise Nigerians not to consider relocating to South Africa because it is simply not safe," she added.
An official of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Dipo Odebowale, said several organisations and individuals had provided support to help the returnees rebuild their lives.
According to him, a church donated ₦100,000 to each returnee, while Pastor Bolaji Idowu also gave ₦100,000 to every evacuee. MTN, he added, provided ₦100,000 in financial support alongside recharge cards worth ₦50,000 for each beneficiary.
The Director-General of the Edo State Migration Agency, Lucky Agazuma, said arrangements had been made to transport returnees from Edo State back home.
"We have provided food packs and transportation to convey them to Edo State. Governor Monday Okpebholo is ready to receive them and ensure they are properly reintegrated into society," Agazuma said.
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