IPCR condemns xenophobic attacks in S/Africa

By Ochiaka Ugwu

The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has in strong terms condemned the killing of Nigerians and other nationals in South Africa.
It also expressed concern over the xenophobic attack on Nigerians and other Africans by some miscreants in South Africa.
In a press statement made available to Peoples Daily in Abuja yesterday and signed by the Institute’s Head of Media, Mr. Musa Mato it noted that the Director General of IPCR, Prof. Bakut T. Bakut condemned the killing and burning of Nigerians, other Nationals’ and their property.
According to the statement, “Prof. Bakut called on the South Africans to remember the historical relationship between them and other African countries which dates back to the days of apartheid.
“Prof. Bakut called on the South African government to caution its people and allow peace to prevail”
He also called on Nigerians to remain calm and not to retaliate or take law into their hand as Federal Government is taking steps to address the situation.
He said it is important to build on the two countries relationship than to destroy it, as diplomatic crisis will not speak well for both countries and the African continent as a whole.
His words, “We should build on what unite us more than what divides us. Attacking each other would not help us, it will only destroy the foundation of our relationship.
“Nigeria and South Africa have come a long way. We have been living together and doing things in common. This is not the time to tear apart, but a time to build a common front for the development of the two countries”.
Bakut noted that Nigeria and South Africa have investments in their countries and as such both should look for a way to harness this profitable venture that will build a peaceful co-existence.