The Nigerian Union in South Africa says
six guest houses owned by their members were burnt during attacks
against Nigerians in Rustenburg, North West Province of South Africa.
The Chairman of the union in the
province, Mr. Paul Nwanedo, told the News Agency of Nigeria on the
telephone from Rustenburg, on Thursday that the attackers beat a woman
and her child.
“These attacks began on Sunday. Four
Nigerians are in critical condition in the hospital. We also received a
report that the taxi drivers also beat up a Nigerian woman and her
child.
“We can also confirm that six guest
houses belonging to our people were burnt by the drivers. We have not
recorded any incident today (Thursday). We have advised our people to
remain indoors and ensure their safety.
“As we speak, stakeholders comprising
the police, taxi drivers and senior government officials are still in a
meeting. The union was not allowed to be part of the meeting,” Nwanedo
said.
He said the union was still taking stock
of losses by Nigerians and would communicate to the appropriate Federal
Government’s representatives in South Africa.
NAN learnt that the taxi drivers went on
the rampage following allegations that Nigerians sold drugs to a gang
that attacked their members.
They also alleged that a Nigerian abducted and raped a 16-year-old South African girl.
Nwando said the allegations were false and spurious.