The President-General and Founder of the United Nations Association of Africa(UNAA) Ambassador(Dr) Sylvester O.Okafor has offered prayers for peace to be restored in the ongoing misunderstanding between some South Africans, Nigerians, and other Africans in South Africa.
Okafor offered the prayers in a special message sent from UNAA headquarter in Houston, Texas,titled “Solidarity Message and Prayers for Nigerians and Other African Nationals in South Africa”.
“We call on all relevant authorities, community leaders, and citizens of goodwill in South Africa to rise above division and uphold the values of peace, justice, and humanity.
“We urge restraint, dialogue, and immediate protection for all vulnerable persons. No grievance should ever justify violence against another human being.
“We pray that God Almighty, the Creator of all nations and the Father of one human family, let peace take over recent developments in South Africa.Lord, let Your peace reign. Where there is hatred, let there be brotherly and sisterly love.”he said.
The President-General also prayed for more continued understanding, wisdom, compassion, and protection of the lives of all people whose lives and means of livelihood were at risk.
Okafor,who called for the protection of displaced, traumatised, and disoriented Nigerians, and other affected Africans, also prayed God to touch the hearts of the perpetrators of such acts.
The Ambassador expressed UNAA concern over reported acts of hostility, attacks, and restriction of movements on Nigerians and other Africans in South Africa.
“In this moment of pain, fear, and uncertainty, we stand in unwavering solidarity with our Nigerian brothers and sisters, and indeed all African nationals residing in South Africa who are facing hardship, hostility, and distress.
“Africa is one family. Our shared history, our struggles for freedom, and our collective dreams bind us together beyond borders.” Okafor said.