Maharaj Ji condemns xenophobic attacks in South Africa as barbaric

By Adejayan Gbenga

The spiritual leader and founder of the One Love Family, Satguru Maharaj Ji, has condemned the recurring xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals living in South Africa, describing the violence as barbaric and unacceptable.

In a statement made available to journalists in Ibadan on Saturday, Maharaj Ji criticised South African President Cyril Ramaphosa over what he described as the government’s poor handling of the attacks, expressing concern over the safety of African immigrants.

According to him, Ramaphosa failed to respond swiftly enough to the attacks, which he said resulted in the destruction of businesses and the loss of livelihoods of many African immigrants residing in South Africa.

He maintained that the recurring attacks undermine the ideals of African unity and pan-Africanism, urging leaders across the continent to take stronger measures to protect citizens regardless of their nationality.

Maharaj Ji argued that economic inequality and unresolved socio-political challenges in post-apartheid South Africa have continued to fuel tensions between local residents and foreign nationals.

He added that stronger economic and social cooperation among African countries would promote development, strengthen unity and reduce divisions across the continent.

The spiritual leader further called on South African authorities to ensure the protection of all residents and bring those responsible for the attacks to justice.

He also appealed to the African Union and other regional organisations to intensify efforts towards promoting peace, regional integration and the protection of African citizens, while urging governments of affected countries to provide support for victims.