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Evacuate Anambra indigenes facing xenophobia in S’Africa, Assembly urges Soludo

From The Punch · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

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  • The Anambra State House of Assembly urged Governor Chukwuma Soludo to help evacuate indigenes facing xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
  • Lawmakers cited concerns over xenophobia, unfavorable immigration policies, and economic hardship faced by Anambra citizens in South Africa.
  • The assembly appealed to wealthy individuals and organizations to support the evacuation effort, invoking the Igbo philosophy of mutual support.

The Anambra State House of Assembly has called for urgent action to evacuate citizens facing xenophobic attacks and difficult conditions in South Africa. Lawmakers expressed deep concern over the plight of Anambra indigenes, citing not only xenophobia but also unfavorable immigration policies and economic hardship as reasons for their distress.

The situation requires urgent intervention, in line with the Igbo philosophy of ‘Onye aghana nwanne ya’ (be your brother’s keeper).

— Ikenna OfodemeThe Majority Leader of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Ikenna Ofodeme, explained the need for collective action to support stranded citizens.

During a plenary session, the assembly passed a motion urging Governor Chukwuma Soludo to mobilize resources. This includes engaging well-meaning individuals, philanthropic organizations, and the private sector to facilitate the return of stranded citizens. The motion highlighted that many individuals traveled to South Africa seeking better economic opportunities but are now facing severe deprivation, insecurity, and legal challenges.

We appeal to wealthy Anambra industrialists, captains of industry, diaspora organisations, and other stakeholders to support the evacuation effort.

— Ikenna OfodemeMajority Leader Ikenna Ofodeme called for financial and logistical support from prominent individuals and groups.

The lawmakers emphasized the need for collective action, referencing the Igbo philosophy of "Onye aghana nwanne ya," which translates to "be your brother's keeper." They appealed to wealthy industrialists, captains of industry, and diaspora organizations within Anambra to contribute to the evacuation efforts. The assembly stressed that the situation requires a humanitarian response, underscoring the emotional and financial burdens placed on the families of those affected back home.

The plight of stranded Anambra indigenes in South Africa requires collective action.

— Anayo OkpalaekeAnayo Okpalaeke, representing Aguata Constituency 1, supported the motion, emphasizing the need for a unified response.
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Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.