BREAKING: South Africa shuts embassy in Nigeria after Xenophobic attacks

South Africa on Thursday closed its diplomatic missions in the Nigerian cities of Abuja and Lagos following violence against South African businesses in reprisal for attacks on foreign-owned stores in Johannesburg.

“After receiving reports and threats from some of the Nigerians we decided to temporarily close while we are assessing the situation,” foreign ministry spokesman Lunga Ngqengelele told AFP, adding the missions were shut yesterday.

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The decision by South Africa to shut down its mission in Nigeria comes after South African businesses like MTN, Shoprite, PEP and others were attacked by Nigerians in reprisal attacks.

This also follows Nigeria’s decision to recall its High Commissioner to South Africa after a meeting between President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama.

Nigeria also boycotted the World Economic Forum which kicked off on Wednesday in Cape Town, South Africa.

Ambassador Kabiru Bala, Nigeria High Commissioner to South Africa was recalled as Nigeria continues to take measures against South Africa following Xenophobic attacks against its citizens.