Air Peace on Wednesday returned 187 out of a total of 640 Nigerians that submitted themselves for repatriation over xenophobic attacks. The returnees were a shortfall from the 314 that had been expected the same day.
The flag carrier, by the original plan, was supposed to make a return to South Africa yesterday to evacuate the second batch. But with the restrictions and alleged arrests of prospective returnees by the South African Immigration, the next evacuation has been delayed until further notice.
Onyema said the Boeing777 aircraft went to South Africa to pick about 320 passengers but the South African government, through its immigration officials, frustrated them.
Air Peace had disclosed that the exercise would cost the airline about N300 million. Onyema however expressed satisfaction with the humanitarian response. According to him, “I believe l cannot go to my grave with my bank account and fat wallet. But l can go to the grave comfortably and peacefully with my legacies. I want to implore all Nigerians to be their brothers’ keepers.
“You could see the shout of joy (by the returnees). Some of them were singing the Nigerian anthem when l moved in. l shed tears too; tears of joy. l am just thankful to God for giving me the heart to be able to take that decision. “It is something l did heartily, happily for my nation, and in support of the government. I am happy also that the president was appreciative of what Air Peace has done and had asked every Nigerian, who is willing to leave that enclave of South Africa, to come back home.” (TheGuardian)