Abia Processes More Returnees From South Africa Amid Xenophobia

The Abia State Government says it is processing another batch of Abians returning from South Africa following cases of xenophobic attacks.

The Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, disclosed this after the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.

He said the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection was working with leaders of the Abia community in South Africa to identify and verify other stranded residents.

Kanu said the state government would continue to support affected returnees with repatriation and reintegration assistance.

Meanwhile, the Nchedo Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Aba recorded eight cases of sexual and gender-based violence involving survivors aged between four and 25.

He said the victims received medical, psychosocial and educational support, while the government was working with law enforcement agencies to ensure justice.

Kanu also announced that 77 per cent of newly deployed MTN network sites across Abia are currently operational, following efforts to improve telecommunications coverage in previously underserved areas.