Obanikoro Denies Recalling High Commissioner To SA

Nigeria has denied recalling its High Commissioner to South Africa, Martin Cobham along with Deputy High Commissioner Uche Ajulu-Okeke over the spate of xenophobic attacks in the country. 

This was confirmed in a series of tweets by the Minister of State II, Foreign Affairs, Musiliu Obanikoro.  The minister advised Nigerians to disregard the “rumours and reports” that such an action had been taken by the Federal Government.

The Punch meanwhile also reports that the special Adviser to the President Goodluck Jonathan on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, has also refuted rumours that Nigeria recalled its envoy to South Africa.

His statement reads: “It is not true that Nigeria has recalled its envoy in South Africa on account of recent xenophobic attacks in that country.”

“There is a mix up and misinformation on the matter. The truth is that Nigeria has not recalled his envoy from South Africa.”

“What has been done is to invite the Charge De Affairs in that country for routine consultation by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.”

READ ALSO: Xenophobia: Read How Much Nigerians In South-Africa Lost In The Crisis

Documents have also surfaced backing up this announcment. The documents were posted by The Breaking Times Nigeria.

The South African government had already expressed sadness with Nigeria's decision to send for its high commissioners return to the country.

At least seven people have died over a month of attacks on foreigners and foreign-owned property in South Africa.

Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini has been blamed for sparking the attacks with comments about foreign workers. Soldiers were deployed to flashpoints last week to prevent more violence.

Source: Legit.ng