The incident reportedly occurred on Friday, November 13, during a credentials ceremony at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House, where Ramaphosa received letters of credence from heads of diplomatic missions representing 15 countries, including Nigeria.

Fani-Kayode, who presented his diplomatic credentials to the South African President, described the occasion as an important milestone in Nigeria’s diplomatic relations with South Africa.

However, the former Minister of Aviation alleged that Nigeria was deliberately left out of the official broadcast, despite other participating countries having their representatives introduced and given opportunities to deliver speeches.

In a statement addressing the incident, Fani-Kayode claimed that the South African Presidency interrupted the livestream before Nigeria’s delegation was introduced and only resumed broadcasting after his speech had ended.

He expressed disappointment that Nigeria was the only participating country whose presentation and address were allegedly excluded from the transmission.

The Nigerian envoy further disclosed that he personally brought the matter to Ramaphosa’s attention during a photograph session shortly after the ceremony.

According to him, the South African President responded by summoning the officials responsible for the broadcast and directing them to address the situation.

Fani-Kayode acknowledged Ramaphosa’s intervention but regretted that the action came too late to ensure Nigeria’s participation in the live transmission.

He also suggested that certain individuals in South Africa might be uncomfortable with Nigeria’s diplomatic presence, although he maintained that the incident would not discourage him from carrying out his responsibilities.

The High Commissioner said he remained committed to representing Nigeria's interests and strengthening relations between both countries, provided the Nigerian government and its representatives were treated with respect.

He also disclosed that Nigerian television stations present at the event recorded his speech and would make the footage available to the Nigerian public.

Additionally, Fani-Kayode revealed that he declined an interview request from the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) following what he considered the unfair treatment of Nigeria's delegation.

Despite expressing his dissatisfaction, the diplomat reiterated his respect for South Africa and its people, distinguishing the actions he complained about from the broader relationship between the two African nations.

He also appreciated Ramaphosa for personally addressing his complaint and intervening when the matter was brought to his attention.

The incident comes at a time when Nigeria and South Africa are seeking to strengthen diplomatic relations amid concerns over the treatment of Nigerians living in South Africa and recurring tensions surrounding xenophobic attacks.

Fani-Kayode's protest has also drawn attention to the importance of diplomatic protocol, mutual respect and equal representation in engagements involving African countries.

Reporting by TalkNaijaMedia