Nigeria Demands Stronger Protection for Citizens as Anti-Migrant Protests Intensify in South Africa
- 22 hours ago
- 2 min read
The Nigerian government has called on South African authorities to take immediate and decisive steps to protect Nigerian citizens as anti-migrant demonstrations continue across parts of the country. The protests, organised by groups campaigning against undocumented immigration, have heightened fears among foreign nationals despite assurances from organisers that the rallies would remain peaceful.
Speaking on the situation, the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Foreign Affairs, Ademola Oshodi, said Nigeria expects South Africa to investigate all reported attacks on Nigerians, protect affected communities, prosecute offenders and fully activate the Nigeria–South Africa Early Warning Mechanism to prevent further violence.
Oshodi stressed that while every sovereign nation has the right to enforce its immigration laws, such responsibility must remain with state institutions rather than vigilante groups or individuals targeting foreign nationals. He warned that Nigeria would not accept attacks, intimidation or discrimination against its citizens living lawfully in South Africa.
The renewed concerns follow reports that at least two Nigerians have lost their lives since xenophobic tensions resurfaced. Investigations into the incidents are ongoing, while Nigerian authorities continue to monitor developments through the country's diplomatic mission in Pretoria.
Meanwhile, another batch of 269 Nigerians voluntarily returned home aboard a government-supported evacuation flight from Johannesburg, arriving at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. The latest operation marks the second official evacuation exercise in recent weeks, with additional flights expected for citizens who complete the required screening process.
Across South Africa, thousands of demonstrators marched in several cities demanding stricter action against undocumented migrants. Although security agencies maintained a heavy presence and many protests remained peaceful, isolated incidents of looting, vandalism and harassment were reported, prompting many foreign nationals to seek safer locations.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa appealed for calm ahead of the demonstrations, acknowledging citizens' constitutional right to peaceful protest while warning that violence, intimidation and criminal acts would not be tolerated. Likewise, March and March leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma insisted that her organisation does not support violence and urged participants to conduct their demonstrations peacefully.
Nigerian authorities said they will continue engaging their South African counterparts while monitoring the safety of Nigerians in the country, reaffirming their commitment to protecting the welfare of citizens abroad and providing assistance to those who choose to return home.
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