Open Letter to the Gov of South Africa: Regarding the Appointment of Femi Fani-Kayode as Nigeria’s Ambassador
To the Government and People of the Republic of South Africa,
At a time of fragile relations between Nigeria and South Africa, diplomatic appointments should help stabilize tensions, not inflame them.
The proposed deployment of Femi Fani-Kayode as Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to South Africa, following reports of a May 2026 posting swap after Germany rejected his posting, raises serious concerns about judgment, credibility, and diplomatic suitability.
A Pattern of Controversy
- Substance Abuse Allegations:
For years, Mr. Fani-Kayode has faced persistent allegations regarding narcotics use. In 2015, the APC publicly referenced concerns about his mental state and alleged substance abuse. Sending a figure associated with such allegations to a country where Nigerians already face drug-related stigmatization is inappropriate.
- Bianca Ojukwu Scandal (2013):
In 2013, Mr. Fani-Kayode publicly and passionately claimed an intimate torrid relationship with Nigeria’s current Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu. She denied ever meeting him and threatened legal action, after which he retracted the claim.
- Domestic Violence Allegations (2020–2021):
His estranged wife, Precious Chikwendu, publicly accused him of physical abuse during their dispute in 2020 and 2021. The allegations generated widespread controversy in Nigeria.
- Public Volatility:
Mr. Fani-Kayode has repeatedly drawn criticism for aggressive public outbursts, including a televised confrontation with a journalist in 2020.
Legal Controversies
Since 2016, he has faced multiple EFCC prosecutions relating to alleged financial crimes. In 2021, he was arraigned over allegations involving a fabricated medical report connected to his money laundering case. Though acquitted in some matters, the repeated controversies remain matters of public record.
A “Fallback” Posting
South Africa literally became an alternative posting after complications surrounding Germany are troubling. South Africa should not be treated as a secondary diplomatic option.
The Risk to Bilateral Relations
Relations between Abuja and Pretoria are already sensitive. Appointing a figure associated with repeated public controversies risks worsening tensions and undermining confidence in Nigerian diplomatic representation.
Conclusion
We urge the South African government to exercise its sovereign right under the Vienna Convention to refuse agrément if it believes the appointment would negatively affect bilateral relations or public confidence in diplomatic engagement.
Thank you
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