Former Commonwealth Secretary‑General Emeka Anyaoku has denounced the latest wave of xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa, labeling the incidents as both distressing and regrettable while recalling his personal involvement in dismantling apartheid and urging Nigerians to verify information online.
Key details include: Anyaoku, now 94, made the remarks during a MasterClass on Penetrative Leadership in an Increasingly Chaotic World Order held in Abuja. He highlighted his 1991 meeting with then‑South African President F.W. de Klerk on 1 November and the final agreement signed at 3:30 a.m. on 17 November 1993. He stated, “The attacks are regrettable.” Vice‑President Kashim Shettima warned against the rapid spread of unverified digital content, speaking through his Special Adviser on Economic Matters, Dr Tope Fasua. Group Managing Director Kola Adesina of Sahara Power Group emphasized that a nation’s reputation rests on performance, character and goodwill.
What did Anyaoku say about the attacks?
Anyaoku expressed sorrow that South Africans, who once endured apartheid and received pan‑African solidarity, were now turning against fellow Africans. He described the violence as “regrettable” and stressed that the sacrifices made by other African nations during the anti‑apartheid struggle made the current hostility especially painful.
How did he help end apartheid?
The former secretary‑general recalled his diplomatic efforts after Nelson Mandela’s release in 1990. He secured Commonwealth backing for negotiations, facilitated Mandela’s May 1990 visit to Abuja for a Commonwealth foreign ministers’ meeting, and obtained a mandate in 1991 to travel to South Africa. During his November 1991 meeting with de Klerk, Anyaoku proposed that the Commonwealth could assist by building confidence among the country’s black, white and Asian communities, using the diversity of his own delegation as a model. He intervened when talks threatened to collapse, helping keep the process on track until the final agreement was signed in the early hours of 17 November 1993.
What cautions were given by Nigerian officials?
Vice‑President Shettima, addressing the audience, highlighted the responsibility that comes with digital connectivity, urging citizens to verify claims before sharing them. He noted that while digital success offers opportunities for businesses, youth and the public, it also amplifies the risk of manipulation. Similarly, Adesina warned that instant sharing of unverified information can damage personal and national reputation, urging Nigerians to consider how their actions shape the country’s image.
Overall, the gathering underscored the need for solidarity across Africa, responsible use of digital platforms, and a commitment to uphold the values that once united the continent against oppression.