South Africa Rejects Nigeria’s Compensation Request Over Properties Left Behind by Returning Nigerians
South Africa Rejects Nigeria's Compensation Request Over Properties Left Behind by Returning Nigerians
South Africa Rejects Nigeria’s Compensation Request Over Properties Left Behind by Returning Nigerians
The South African Government has rejected calls for compensation over properties reportedly abandoned by Nigerians who returned home following recent anti-immigration unrest.
South Africa’s Minister, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said the government would not make compensation payments, maintaining that legally owned and registered assets such as houses, vehicles and businesses can be sold through the normal market like any other private property.
She stated that the government cannot be held responsible for losses resulting from individuals deciding to leave the country out of fear, adding that informal or illegally occupied properties do not qualify for compensation.
The development comes as the Nigerian Government continues diplomatic engagements with South Africa over the welfare of affected citizens.
More than 600 Nigerians have reportedly been evacuated from South Africa through government-arranged flights. Acting Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Alexander Ajayi, said returnees have been advised to document all properties and belongings they left behind, including shops, goods, vehicles and houses, to support any future claims.
Ajayi also disputed suggestions that all the affected Nigerians were undocumented migrants, explaining that many had entered South Africa legally but became affected by delays in processing their immigration documents.
The differing positions highlight a growing diplomatic disagreement, with Nigeria seeking protection and possible compensation for the investments and properties of its citizens, while South Africa maintains that the matter falls under private property ownership and does not place any financial obligation on the government.
The issue remains unresolved as both countries continue diplomatic discussions on the fate of Nigerians affected by the unrest.
South Africa Rejects Nigeria’s Compensation Request Over Properties Left Behind by Returning Nigerians
