The South African government has rejected Nigeria's request for compensation on behalf of Nigerians who left businesses, homes and other properties behind while fleeing renewed xenophobic tensions in the country.

Nigeria had begun documenting assets abandoned by affected citizens after organising voluntary evacuation flights for hundreds of Nigerians who returned home because of growing anti-immigration protests and fears of violence.

Acting High Commissioner Temitope Ajayi said the records were being compiled to support discussions with South African authorities on possible compensation for losses suffered by the returnees.

However, South Africa's Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, stated clearly that the government would not pay compensation for properties left behind.

According to her, Nigerians who legally own properties in South Africa still retain ownership and can sell such assets through the country's property market instead of expecting payment from the government.

She also explained that structures built in informal settlements or illegal locations cannot qualify for compensation because they are not recognised as lawful property under South African law.

The matter later generated debate after former Nigerian senator Shehu Sani criticised the minister's comments on social media, arguing that such remarks were inappropriate from a senior government official.

Ntshavheni responded by insisting she stood by her position, saying, 'I didn't stutter,' while stressing that illegally acquired or illegally situated property would not be compensated.

During the same briefing, the minister also called on Nigeria to identify locations allegedly linked to drug-related activities involving some Nigerians in South Africa so authorities could investigate them.

Although South Africa has rejected the compensation request, Nigeria has not yet announced whether it will continue diplomatic engagement on the matter.