A public affairs commentator, Mr. Omoyele Olabode has commended the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) for its financial support towards the evacuation of Nigerians caught up in recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
Olabode also condemned the renewed spate of xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other African nationals in parts of South Africa, describing the development as “barbaric, unacceptable and a setback to African unity.”
In a statement made available to newsmen in Lagos on Friday, Olabode said the church’s intervention came at a critical time when many Nigerians were stranded and in distress following the violence.
“I commend the leadership of the RCCG for rising to the occasion and providing fund support to assist in the evacuation of our compatriots from South Africa.
“This is faith in action. It demonstrates that in times of crisis, institutions with moral authority must lead by example,” Olabode said.
He noted that beyond spiritual ministry, the church has consistently shown commitment to humanitarian causes, adding that its support would bring relief to families affected by the attacks.
He urged the Federal Government to deepen diplomatic engagement with Pretoria to secure the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa.
“The spate of xenophobia in South Africa must be condemned in the strongest terms. No African should be killed or driven out of another African country because of nationality.
“Government must ensure that perpetrators are brought to book and that adequate compensation is paid to victims.” he said.
Olabode further called on Nigerians in the Diaspora to remain law-abiding while urging South African authorities to protect all foreign nationals in line with international conventions.
He expressed hope that the evacuation exercise, supported by well-meaning organisations like RCCG, would be completed swiftly and transparently.