Xenophobia: Jonathan Suspends Foreign Affairs Ministry Perm Sec Over Unauthorized Envoy Recall

Posted by African Examiner Featured, Latest Headlines, News Tuesday, April 28th, 2015

From Ganiyu Nasirudeen – President Goodluck Jonathan has slammed suspension on the permanent Secretary (PS) of Foreign Affairs in connection with the last weekend controversial recall of Nigerian Envoy to South Africa, Ambassador Danjuma Sheni.

The recall which was also twisted by the same Ministry as a mere summon to the Diplomat to brief the Ministry on the raging Xenophobic attacks against the foreigners in South Africa, was said to have been done, without due authorization, hence has it has further strain relationship between the country and Nigeria.

The suspension which sources revealed was issued Monday was with query to the Perm Sec, which demanded clarification from him, why he should not be punished over his bureaucratic blunder.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Aminu Wali had indicated in a statement last week that Nigeria Envoy was merely summoned for consultations on the attack, which has claimed not less than seven foreigners.

However, the speculation provoked a worrisome response from the South African Government, as the Spokesperson in the Foreign Ministry, Clayson Monyela, said the decision by Nigeria was shocking and outrageous.