South Africa rules out compensation for evacuated Nigerians

South Africa has ruled out compensating Nigerians who left the country during recent anti migrant unrest, with Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, South Africa’s minister in the presidency, saying only legally owned and registered property is entitled to protection under the law.

The comments came after Temitope Ajayi, acting Nigerian high commissioner to South Africa, said Nigeria was considering options to seek compensation for citizens who abandoned businesses and other assets while returning home amid growing tensions.

Read also: nigeria-seeks-compensation-from-south-africa-over-migrant-exodus/

Speaking at a press briefing on Friday, Ntshavheni dismissed suggestions that the South African government should pay compensation for property left behind by those who had departed the country.

She said legitimate property is formally registered with the relevant authorities, while structures in informal settlements are illegal and not recognised by the state.

The minister advised migrants who own property in South Africa to sell their assets through the country’s property market rather than expect compensation.

Read also: how-s-africa-is-incurring-hatred-de-marketing-a-once-admired-nation

The remarks drew criticism from Shehu Sani, former Nigerian senator who represented Kaduna Central, who questioned the government’s position.

“This is from a SENIOR Government official and NOT a thug from the streets,” Sani wrote on social media.

Ntshavheni defended her comments, insisting she had been clear.

“I didn’t stutter. Any form of property obtained illegally won’t be compensated for,” she said.

The latest exchange adds to growing diplomatic tensions between Nigeria and South Africa following recent protests targeting undocumented migrants. Nigerian officials have raised concerns over the safety of their citizens and the loss of businesses and property, while South African authorities maintain that immigration and property matters must be handled within the country’s legal framework.

Read also: safrica-perceives-undocumented-foreigners-dominate-small-business-sector

Earlier, Ntshavheni also called on the Nigerian government to provide information on locations allegedly linked to drug related activities, saying such intelligence would help South African authorities investigate and enforce the law.