South African Government Statement on alleged Calls for Compensation by Nigeria

Pretoria - The South African government has noted media reports alleging that the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has demanded compensation to Nigerian nationals following the recent spate of attacks on people from other countries resident in South Africa.

The government wishes to place it on record that no such formal request has been officially made by the Nigerian authorities. Furthermore, we would like to draw attention to the fact that both South Africa and the Federal Republic of Nigeria enjoy fraternal diplomatic relations which enables discussion of issues of mutual interest and concern between the two countries through existing bilateral mechanisms.

In this context, South Africa will not be responding to the media reports concerned.

South Africa indeed looks forward to the scheduled state visit of Nigerian President, Umaru Yar’Adua to South Africa next week.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa at 082-990-4853

Department of Foreign Affairs
P/Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

28 May 2008