From Marcel Duru Owerri
Imo indigenes repatriated from South Africa staged a protest at the Imo Government House, Owerri. Governor Hope Uzodimma had announced that every Imo indigene repatriated from South Africa will get N1 million each,the protesters said they have not received it yet. They want the state to provide immediate business grants, housing, and job support* since most of them fled South Africa and abandoned their businesses and properties. One of them who gave his name as Njoku said that similar to the FG position, they want Imo Govt to document businesses and properties left behind in South Africa so Nigeria can seek compensation.He also referenced what other returnees got N100,000 cash and N50,000 airtime/data from MTN* and asked Imo Govt to ensure they get all federal and State packages. The protest was by Imo indigenes among the *258 and Nigerians evacuated* from South Africa due to renewed xenophobic attacks. The Acting High Commissioner described their ordeal as “traumatic.” The FG said the repatriation is voluntary and President Tinubu directed that all willing Nigerians be evacuated. NiDCOM Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa also confirmed support packages for returnees”Meanwhile as of last night, Imo Govt officials met with them at Govt House and promised to fast-track the payment verification. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also urged state governments to support returnees with resettlement assistance.
