The Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria
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The alleged appointment of Femi Fani-Kayode, Nigeria's ambassador-designate, who was initially intended for Germany, has stirred considerable concern following reports that he may be reassigned to South Africa after his expected candidacy was reportedly rejected by the German government. A prominent non-profit organisation focused on promoting security and democracy in Nigeria has expressed deep reservations about Fani-Kayode’s capability to represent Nigeria abroad, branding him a 'misfit' for diplomatic service.
According to the Global Coalition for Security and Democracy in Nigeria, Fani-Kayode's controversial past and divisive rhetoric raise significant red flags.
"As a former Minister of Aviation and a stalwart of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), his political career has been marred by allegations of misinformation and incitement. The European Union Election Observation Mission noted that during the recent Nigerian elections, Fani-Kayode was implicated in the dissemination of fake news, a charge that coincides with broader concerns about the integrity of democratic processes," it said in statement.
One instance cited by the EU involved Fani-Kayode's unsubstantiated claims about a secret meeting between the opposition’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and military generals. Such unfounded assertions, according to critics, not only threaten national unity but also jeopardise international relations, especially during a time when trustworthy diplomacy is crucial.
The non-profit organisation firmly believes that accepting Fani-Kayode — a figure they deem to possess an ethnocentric and destabilising agenda — not only endangers South Africa's international image but also complicates its diplomatic landscape. They question whether a country so admired for its struggle against racism and its commitment to nonracial governance should welcome someone with such a checkered reputation.
However according to online publication Punch, Femi Fani-Kayode, has denied a media report claiming that he was rejected by the German government as an ambassador.
It cited a Peoples Gazette report on Monday that the former minister’s ambassadorial posting was rejected over alleged ethnic and religious slurs.
He is quoted as writing, "The opposition was 'pained' by his appointment. and was making efforts to discredit him.
“Fake news everywhere. These opposition elements are so pained by my appointment, and they are doing everything to discredit me and scuttle it. Whether they like it or not, I will serve my country! Keep crying!” he wrote.
He also denied that he was about to be posted to South Africa.
The Global Coalition for Security and Democracy in Nigeria, in a letter to President Cyril Ramaphosa, said concerns extend to the lack of transparency surrounding Fani-Kayode's appointment process.
"Allegedly hurried through without proper vetting by Nigeria’s National Assembly, his nomination raises questions about the motivations of Nigerian officials."
They highlight the risk that his presence in South Africa could exacerbate tensions and conflicts, given his known penchant for provocative public statements and claims of a “short fuse.”
"Fani-Kayode has publicly admitted to his temperamental nature, contributing further to fears surrounding his capacity to fulfil an ambassadorial role effectively. Incidents such as his unceremonious confrontation with the UK’s High Commissioner to Nigeria only amplify these worries, showcasing a propensity for conflict rather than diplomacy.
In light of these alarming developments, the organisation advocates for South Africa to reject Fani-Kayode's ambassadorship outright. They assert that a decision favouring Fani-Kayode would not only defy the interests of Nigerian citizens who oppose his character but would also risk undermining constitutional and diplomatic norms.
"The appeal serves as an urgent reminder of the implications such a decision could have on regional stability and mutual respect among nations."