The South African Revenue Service (SARS) seized the funds at Lanseria airport, northwest of Johannesburg, on Sept. 5, 2014. The funds held at the SA central bank was finally released to the Nigerian government.
Per Second News gathered from a top security source Tuesday that the money may have finally been paid into one of the numerous government's accounts operated by the former National Security Adviser (NSA) retired Colonel Sambo Dasuki.
Our correspondent gathered that the money was quietly returned to the former NSA before he handed over the mantle of leadership as the NSA, retired Major General Babagana Monguno, on Tuesday afternoon.
The seizure of the $9.3 million drew heavy controversies that had exacerbated tensions between the two countries with counter accusations from both Nigeria and the South African governments.
Relations between Nigeria and South Africa have not been at their best, particularly between the Zuma and Jonathan administrations.
According to a South African Presidency source “By returning this money you get friendship, loyalty and an opportunity where President Buhari is willing to work with us to lead the continent and speak with one voice.”
“Instead of Nigeria second-guessing us all the time, we will compare notes and stop fighting for things like the United Nations Security Council seat that’s not even permanent,” the source said.
“Nigeria is a strategic country that South Africa cannot ignore. It’s a big market. It’s possible South African companies make more money in Nigeria than in South Africa.”
It is believed that South Africa also returned another $5.7 million seized from Nigeria, money which was purportedly to buy arms including 50 M-75 cannons and 200,000 rounds of ammunition. Per Second News learnt that former vice president Atiku Abubakar, using his closeness to South Africa’s President Jacob Zuma settled the rift.
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