My presence in South Africa is for good — Ezekwesili responds to critics

Ezekwesili defends decision to attend World Economic Forum in South Africa.

There was serious concern yesterday, over the incessant attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals living in South Africa. The sluggishness in government's reaction to the xenophobic attacks also prompted reactions from citizens who took matters into their own hands and began attacking South Africa companies in retaliation.



As the situation escalates, there were calls to boycott the World Economic Forum scheduled for 4th to 6th September, 2019. Nigeria has already boycotted the Forum alongside other countries like Rwanda, Malawi and DR Congo.

While Jim Ovia, the Chairman of Zenith Bank withdrew from the forum, Nigeria's Oby Ezekwesili decided to attend the forum albeit offering some reasons. But not all Nigerians consider her decision as prudent.

Those who have genuine concerns about my being at @wef in South Africa, should please know that my decision to be here was thoroughly considered.
I am in South Africa leveraging my ensure that @GovernmentZA never again looks away while our citizens are attacked, maimed & killed.

— Oby Ezekwesili (@obyezeks) September 4, 2019

She said her decision to attend was in the interest of the country, and would ensure that the "South African Government never again looks away while our citizens are attacked."

She said, "Those who have genuine concerns about my being at WEF in South Africa, should please know that my decision to be here was thoroughly considered. I am in South Africa leveraging my attendance to ensure that South African Government never again looks away while our citizens are attacked. "


Although Ezekwesili's reason seem genuine, Nigerians aren't that convinced, believing boycotting the forum would have sent a much powerful message.