The Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) and National Chairman of the Allied People’s Movement (APM), Yusuf Dantalle, has said the renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa should serve as a wake-up call for Nigerians to address the country’s long-standing leadership and governance problems.
Speaking of Tuesday during an appearance on Channels Television current affairs programme, Dantalle expressed concern over the rising hostility towards foreign nationals in South Africa.
He argued that the development highlights the urgent need for Nigeria to reposition itself as a leading force on the African continent.
According to him, Nigeria should ordinarily be a nation that other African countries look up to for direction and support.
He however, noted that recurring challenges at home have weakened the country’s influence and standing within the region.
Dantalle said the attacks should encourage Nigerians to become more involved in the process of rebuilding the nation by electing leaders capable of tackling the country’s social, economic and political problems.
“What is happening, the xenophobic attack on Nigerians in South Africa and in some other African countries, is a call for us to come back and fix Nigeria.
”Nigerians should elect who they want to fix Nigeria, not anybody deciding what should be done. Africa is supposed to look up to Nigeria as a big brother,” he said.
His remarks come amid growing concern over a fresh wave of xenophobic violence in South Africa, where foreign nationals have reportedly been targeted by groups accusing immigrants of contributing to unemployment, poverty and criminal activities.
The attacks have triggered widespread panic in affected communities, forcing many foreign residents to flee their homes and seek safety elsewhere.
The situation has also drawn reactions from governments across the continent as fears grow over the safety of their citizens living in South Africa.
In response to the crisis, several African countries have commenced emergency evacuation efforts for their nationals.
Nigeria is among the countries that have taken action, with the Federal Government already facilitating the return of an initial batch of 258 Nigerians from South Africa.
The latest developments have renewed discussions about regional integration, migration and the protection of African citizens across the continent, while also raising questions about the economic and social conditions fuelling anti-immigrant sentiments in South Africa.
For Dantalle, however, the lesson for Nigeria is clear: the country must focus on strengthening its institutions, improving governance and empowering citizens if it hopes to reclaim its position as a respected leader in Africa.
