Former president of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has blamed the `laxity and insincerity’ of the South African Government under President Jacob Zuma for the incessant Xenophobic Attacks on foreigners.

The ex-president condemned the attacks on Wednesday in Abeokuta when he received the leadership of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, (NIPSS) Kuru, Jos who paid him a courtesy call.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Obasanjo described the development as a `betrayal’ of the struggle for the emancipation of the country against the apartheid regime.

He said: “I will apportion more blame to the leadership of the South African government.

“While the immaturity of the youths can be excused, the leaders ought to realise the importance of unity and brotherliness in Africa.

“While I blame the youths of the country for the attacks, I will blame the leaders of any country more that allows xenophobic attacks against fellow Africans for whatever reason.

Obasanjo also called on African leaders to ensure good governance for the overall development of the continent.

“African leaders should also step up measures at developing their countries and improve the living standards of their citizens.

“This will discourage our youths who because of underdevelopment and poor living standard seek greener pastures outside their countries.

“I feel disheartened learning that many of our youths perish while crossing the Sahara Desert or the Mediterranean Sea.’’ he said.