Ex-envoy urges Africa to demand SA compensation for xenophobic attack victims
Former Nigerian Ambassador to Switzerland Joseph Ayalogu urged Nigeria and other African countries to demand compensation from the South African government for victims of xenophobic attacks, speaking on Channels Television's The Morning Brief on Tuesday, June 23, 2026. He said the attacks, which have destroyed businesses and led to deaths, are largely Afrophobic, targeting Africans while ignoring foreigners from other continents. Ayalogu expressed dissatisfaction with South Africa's response, calling for firm action and enforcement of existing laws to stop the violence.
The recent unrest has prompted the evacuation of 258 Nigerians from South Africa, with the Nigerian in Diaspora Commission and the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemning the attacks and insisting "enough is enough." South African police have increased deployments nationwide ahead of a June 30 deadline set by fringe anti-illegal immigration groups urging undocumented foreigners to leave the country. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said the force is ready to protect communities and critical infrastructure, while Defence Minister Angie Motshekga noted the military would secure strategic sites such as airports and assist police if needed.
Ayalogu added that African nations should collectively press Pretoria for reparations for lost livelihoods and investments, emphasizing that compensation is necessary for those whose businesses were looted or destroyed.