Dare Babalola
Former Kaduna Central senator, Shehu Sani, has cautioned Nigerians in the diaspora against engaging in actions that could endanger fellow citizens living abroad.
He warned that such conduct is fueling resentment and hostility in host countries.
In a Facebook post shared on Wednesday, Sani expressed concern over what he described as the growing “discontent and disenchantment” toward Nigerians in foreign nations, particularly referencing ongoing tensions in South Africa.
According to him, certain activities by Nigerians overseas—especially attempts to impose traditional structures such as “installing kings” in host countries—are not only inappropriate but could provoke serious backlash against the wider Nigerian community.
“Those Nigerians in the habit or business of installing ‘Kings’ in other countries are indeed putting the lives of other diaspora Nigerians in fatal danger,” he stated.
The former lawmaker linked recent protests targeting Nigerians in South Africa to what he described as misconduct by a few individuals who have “disrespected and abused the hospitality of their host.”
“The growing discontent and disenchantment with Nigerians in other countries is worrying. The ongoing South African protests against Nigerians is caused by Nigerians who disrespected and abused the hospitality of their host,” he said.
Sani questioned the rationale behind attempting to replicate traditional institutions in foreign countries, describing such actions as culturally insensitive and potentially unlawful.
“For God’s sake, how can you go to another country and install a monarch for them?” he queried.
He further warned that similar actions in countries with stricter legal systems could attract severe consequences, citing examples such as Saudi Arabia, Russia, and China.
“If you try that in Saudi, Russia or China, they will take you to a court where the trial is not done in English language,” he added.
Sani’s comments come amid recurring concerns over the safety of Nigerians abroad, particularly in South Africa, where tensions have periodically flared between locals and foreign nationals, including Nigerians.
He urged Nigerians living overseas to respect the laws, customs, and sensitivities of their host countries, stressing that irresponsible actions by a few individuals could have far-reaching consequences for the broader diaspora community.
