The Anambra State House of Assembly has called on the state governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo to mobilise well-meaning individuals, philanthropic organisations, and the organised private sector in the state to urgently assist in the evacuation of stranded Anambra indigenes facing xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

The lawmakers made the call following a motion sponsored by the Majority Leader, Ikenna Ofodeme, and other members of the House, during plenary on Tuesday.

They expressed concerns over the plight of Anambra citizens affected by xenophobic attacks, unfavourable immigration policies, economic hardship, and other hostile conditions in South Africa.

Ofodeme noted that “many of the affected persons travelled abroad in search of better economic opportunities,” but are now confronted with “severe deprivation, insecurity, and legal challenges,” which have placed “emotional and financial burdens on their families back home.”

He said, “The situation requires urgent intervention, in line with the Igbo philosophy of ‘Onye aghana nwanne ya’ (be your brother’s keeper).

“We appeal to wealthy Anambra industrialists, captains of industry, diaspora organisations, and other stakeholders to support the evacuation effort.”

The member representing Aguata Constituency 1, Anayo Okpalaeke; Jude Ngobili representing Ihiala Constituency 1; and Fred Ezenwa representing Onitsha South 1, commended the sponsor of the motion and said it is a call for humanitarian action, noting that “the plight of stranded Anambra indigenes in South Africa requires collective action.”

The Speaker, Somtochukwu Udeze, “thanked the sponsor of the motion.”