Xenophobia Fears Rise: Nigeria Demands Urgent Protection for Citizens in South Africa Amid Fresh Attacks

(NiDCOM DG, Abike Dabiri-Erewa. Photo by Vangaurd news)
In light of growing allegations of xenophobic attacks, intimidation, and harassment in several areas of the country, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission has called on the South African government to take immediate action to protect Nigerians and other African migrants.

The commission said in a statement issued by its Chairman/CEO, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, on Wednesday that despite previous diplomatic contacts between the two nations, tensions aimed against black immigrants were getting worse.

"The situation on the ground is deteriorating, even though many expected a de-escalation of tensions following earlier engagements between both governments," Dabiri-Erewa stated.

According to NiDCOM, business owners were reportedly closing their stores due to concerns about targeted attacks, looting, and harassment, and youngsters of Nigerian heritage were now afraid to go to school. Additionally, it stated that local authorities have recorded new violent acts throughout the previous 72 hours.

The commission emphasized that international law and African Union protocols mandated that South African authorities take prompt action to protect foreign nationals.

Additionally, it denounced what it called the profiling of Nigerians, arguing that criminal offenses had to be dealt with on an individual basis rather than being used to stigmatize a whole nationality.

"Nationality has no bearing on crime. Any person who commits a crime, regardless of where they are from, should be looked into and forced to face the full penalty of South African law,” it said.

NiDCOM issued a warning against collective punishment and general stereotyping of Nigerians, calling such acts "unacceptable and dangerous." It also made a list of demands, including the creation of a joint Nigeria-South Africa community safety forum, increased security presence in impacted communities, and the prosecution of attackers.

Additionally, it called on South African authorities to publicly denounce bigotry and encourage messages that are inclusive.

The commission confirmed continued cooperation with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria, the Consulate in Johannesburg, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs while advising Nigerians living in South Africa to uphold the law and stay away from dangerous locations, especially at night.

With the statement, "We believe in the historical ties that bind both nations and call for calm, restraint, and respect for human life," NiDCOM also highlighted friendly relations with a large number of South Africans.

"To ensure the safety, dignity, and rights of our citizens abroad, Nigeria will continue to work diplomatically with South Africa."

The occurrence coincides with a resurgence of xenophobic sentiments in South Africa, which have been related to demonstrations purportedly organized by Operation Dudula, an anti-immigration group accused of advocating for the expulsion of African migrants, including schoolchildren.

Following stories of Nigerian killings and warnings to diaspora populations about safety hazards in areas like Durban, Cape Town, and KwaZulu-Natal, the disturbance has already raised diplomatic worries.

In the past, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed his adherence to international human rights duties while urging foreigners to respect the nation's laws and customs.

Nigeria has maintained diplomatic relations with South African authorities as tensions grow, with NiDCOM maintaining that immediate action is required to stop further escalation and safeguard vulnerable migrants throughout impacted communities.