Nusa Gauteng, In Strong Terms, Condemns The Invasion Of The Consulate General Of Nigeria, Johannesburg.

By Olaniyi Thevoice Abodedele (Chairman) Jan, 24 2023 | 12:25:38

On Wednesday, 18 January 2023, City Power and Johannesburg Metro Police invaded the Consulate General of Nigeria premises, in Johannesburg, without due consultations and permission by the Consulate General, whereby not respecting the Vienne Convention on Diplomatic Missions.

Nigeria Union Gauteng, in strong terms, condemns the invasion of the Consulate General of Nigeria, in Johannesburg, by City Power and the Johannesburg Metro Police. We, therefore, call on the host government to take action against those responsible for such an act.

A similar situation occurred on Tuesday, 11 December 2011, heavily armed Police from Bramley Police Station arrived and were denied access by consular officials,  allegedly stormed the gate before attempting to scale the electric fence after 68 members of Twelve Apostles Church in Christ, who were to travel to Nigeria, on Wednesday demanded their passports back after being denied visas to travel to Nigeria.

Often the South African Authorities do not accord the Government of Nigeria and its citizens the respect it deserves most times. It is clear that the South African Authorities, at every given opportunity, are out to embarrass Nigeria and Nigerians.

While we appreciate the Consul General's firm stance, his professionalism, and how he has dealt with the issue, if it occurs again, Nigeria Union Gauteng will have no other choice than to mobilize the community to a peaceful protest.

Nigerian Union Gauteng calls on its members and Nigerians in Gauteng to respect the laws of the land, obey the law and be good citizens of Nigeria.