Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Forum of National Youth Leaders of All Political Parties in Nigeria (FNYLPPN) was received in audience by Senator Aniekan Etim Bassey, Chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations at the National Assembly, Abuja. This was contained in a statement signed by Hon. Eze Onyebuchi, National Youth Leader, All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), and Chairman, Forum of National Youth Leaders of All Political Parties in Nigeria (FNYLPPN) and announced by Comrade Ozu Important, National Youth Leader, Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Publicity Secretary (FNYLPPN).
The statement reads: “The meeting followed a formal letter submitted by the Forum notifying the Senator of its decision and position regarding the persistent xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa. In response to the letter, the Senator extended an invitation to the Forum for direct engagement.
“Leading the delegation, Eze Onyebuchi, Chairman of FNYLPPN, thanked the Senator for the invitation and for the Senate’s attention to the plight of Nigerians in the Diaspora.
“He expressed the Forum’s displeasure over the continued attacks, destruction of livelihoods, and what he described as “insufficient urgency” in addressing the welfare and safety of Nigerians abroad. He also mentioned the complicity of the South African government as a deal breaker; hence, the deadline remains sacrosanct.
Hon. Eze Onyebuchi noted: “We appreciate this invitation, Mr. Chairman. It shows that our voices are being heard. But appreciation must translate to action. On behalf of Nigerian youths across all political parties, I state clearly that the Forum’s position stands: the July 31st deadline remains. We expect to see concrete diplomatic, legal, and protective measures for Nigerians in South Africa on or before that date,” Eze Onyebuchi insisted.
“The Forum reaffirmed its key demands:
Immediate and firm diplomatic action by the Federal Government against the South African Government.
Compensation and restitution for Nigerians whose lives and businesses have been affected.
Enhanced consular protection through the Nigerian Mission in Pretoria.
AU and ECOWAS intervention to curb Afrophobia across the continent.
“Responding, Senator Aniekan Etim Bassey commended the Forum for its patriotism and for channelling the grievances through proper democratic channels.
“He, however, highlighted government efforts in addressing the situation, including evacuation, medical and financial support, and the ongoing push for compensation and repatriation. He assured the delegation that the Senate Committee and other government authorities are prioritizing the matter and shall push for decisive action in line with the concerns raised.
“The Forum noted that it will continue to monitor developments and will take appropriate action after the expiration of the July 31st deadline,” it also added.
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