(Allen Onyema. Photo by Instablog9ja)
Air Peace Chairman Allen Onyema has called on Nigerians to consider a non-violent economic response to recurring reports of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African migrants in South Africa.
Speaking during an interview shared online, Onyema expressed concern over alleged harassment, intimidation and displacement of foreigners from their businesses in South Africa.
He questioned why such incidents continue despite the presence of security institutions that should protect residents and businesses.
“How do you explain when people will march into somebody’s house… ‘Can I see your papers? You’re a foreigner, you have to go back home’?” he asked.
While condemning attacks against Nigerians abroad, the Air Peace boss warned against any form of retaliation through violence.
He stressed that Nigerians should not attack South Africans or their businesses in Nigeria, saying such actions do not represent the country’s values.
“I don’t want Nigerians to go to the street and attack any South Africans. Nigerians are not like that. We love foreigners,” he said.
Instead, Onyema called for a peaceful economic response, urging Nigerians to reduce business involvement and investments in South Africa.
“The kind of retaliation I want is non-violent action. Boycott South Africa. Don’t invest in that country,” he stated.
His comments have sparked discussions about the best approach to addressing xenophobic incidents while maintaining diplomatic and economic relationships between both countries.
