The Governor of Oyo State Seyi Makinde condemns the Xenophobic attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa, while also condemning the retaliation from Nigerians, which resulted in the alleged burning down of MTN office in Bodija, Ibadan.
Governor Seyi Makinde in a statement released on Wednesday 4th September 2019, said he unreservedly condemn the recent xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa and sympathises with his Nigerian brothers and sisters who have suffered losses as a result of the attacks.
The Governor who also condemned Tuesday’s alleged destruction of properties belonging to MTN in Oyo State by hoodlums said:
“As provocative as these attacks are, they cannot be justification for criminality and the attacks on businesses in Oyo State.
I commend the fire service for their timely intervention in containing the fire at the MTN building in Bodija and the police for containing the attack on Shoprite. We will continue working with the security forces to ensure there isn’t a breakdown of law and order” he said.
This was his full statement released a few hours ago:
“I unreservedly condemn the recent xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, and I sympathise with our Nigerian brothers and sisters who have suffered losses as a result of these attacks. As provocative as these attacks are, they cannot be justification for criminality and the attacks on businesses in Oyo State.
I commend the fire service for their timely intervention in containing the fire at the MTN building in Bodija and the police for containing the attack on Shoprite. We will continue working with the security forces to ensure there isn’t a breakdown of law and order“.
The situation in Nigeria which seems to have been brought under control, just as it was clearly stated by the Governor, has seen MTN closed all his shops nationwide to avoid further damage and injuries. This was the message put out by MTN on Wednesday reacting to the violence in South Africa.
“MTN Nigeria Communications PLC confirms that over the last day, our facilities, customers and some of our stakeholders have been the subject of attacks in retaliation for the ongoing xenophobic situation in South Africa,” the statement read.
“We have confirmed reports of attacks in Lagos, Ibadan and Uyo. While we remain committed to providing uninterrupted services, the safety and security of our customers, staff and partners is our primary concern.
“All MTN stores and service centres will, therefore, be closed as a precaution until further notice.
“MTN condemns any acts of violence, prejudice and xenophobia and remains absolutely committed to ensuring a peaceful, harmonious and respectful relationship with all communities in Nigeria and across Africa.”