By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Xenophobia Row: Okai Blasts Kalu, Urges Igbo Elders to Intervene
A fresh political dispute has emerged following comments by Orji Uzor Kalu on the rising wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, with Austin Okai openly criticising the senator’s position.
During a session in the National Assembly, Kalu cautioned fellow lawmakers against taking steps that could strain diplomatic ties between Nigeria and South Africa.
His remarks came amid heated reactions from some senators who warned that continued attacks on Nigerians abroad could trigger backlash against South African businesses operating locally.
Kalu, however, urged restraint, stressing the need to preserve the long-standing relationship between both nations.
He also suggested that some of the outrage expressed during the debate was more about public visibility than genuine concern.
His stance did not sit well with Okai, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), who took to social media to question the senator’s position.
Okai argued that many of those directly affected by the attacks are from Kalu’s own region, making his comments difficult to reconcile.
He further called on leaders from the South-East to step in, insisting that Kalu’s response fails to reflect the gravity of the situation.
Okai added that other lawmakers who have spoken more strongly on the issue deserve greater commendation, noting that the matter has been gaining traction in recent weeks after sustained advocacy.
The ongoing attacks in South Africa have continued to spark outrage across Nigeria, with growing calls for stronger diplomatic and economic responses to protect citizens living abroad.
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