Edo: Governor Okpebholo Grants N1 Million Housing Support to South Africa Xenophobia Returnees

Governor Monday Okpebholo has announced a N1 million housing support package for each Edo indigene evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks, as part of efforts to facilitate their resettlement and reintegration.

The governor made the announcement on Monday while addressing the returnees at the Festival Hall of the Edo State Government House in Benin City.

Okpebholo said the financial support would help the returnees secure accommodation while the state government also provides additional assistance to help them rebuild their lives.

He noted that many of the returnees possess valuable skills and professional experience acquired abroad, which could contribute to the state’s economic development.

“Once you identify what you want to do, come to us. We will give you a soft loan to enable you to start because we want you to be fully reintegrated into society,” the governor said.

He disclosed that each returnee would receive N1 million within 24 hours to ensure they were not left stranded upon their return.

“There is no place better than home. Nobody will chase you away from here. Edo is peaceful, and Nigeria is safe. South Africa may have taken everything from you, but you still have your lives, which is the most important thing,” he said.

Okpebholo assured the returnees that the Edo State Government would continue to support its citizens wherever they are, especially during times of distress.

“We will continue to support our people wherever they are. If they are in distress, we will rescue them and ensure they are comfortable so they do not experience such hardship again,” he added.

The governor also reflected on the historical relationship between Nigeria and South Africa, noting that Nigerians had previously supported South Africans and protected their businesses during difficult periods. He stressed that Nigerians would not retaliate despite the recent attacks.

Speaking on behalf of the returnees, Mr. Riches Unubun expressed appreciation to both the Edo State Government and the Federal Government for their prompt intervention in evacuating them from South Africa.

He urged fellow returnees to support the state’s development, adding that they were eager to participate in the democratic process by obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

“When we leave here, we have a civic responsibility to appreciate what the Edo State Government has done for us. Let us be directed to where we can register and obtain our voter cards because we want the good work being done in Edo to continue,” Unubun said.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Edo State Immigration Agency, Mr. Lucky Agazuma, commended Governor Okpebholo for demonstrating compassion and commitment to the welfare of the returnees.

The Edo State Government said the resettlement initiative is aimed at helping the victims recover from their ordeal and reintegrate successfully into society through financial assistance and access to business support programmes.