Nigeria demands action as xenophobic attacks in South Africa kill two Nigerians
Xenophobic violence in South Africa has escalated, with protesters setting a 30‑June deadline for foreigners to leave and marching in cities such as Pietermaritzburg, where chants of "Abahambe!" ("They must go!") filled the streets. The attacks have left at least two Nigerians, five Mozambicans and five Ethiopians dead, according to reports. In a statement on Monday, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and Protocol, Ademola Oshodi, condemned the violence as disturbing and unacceptable, urging South Africa to investigate every reported attack, protect Nigerian communities, restrain vigilante groups, prosecute perpetrators and activate the Nigeria-South Africa Early Warning Mechanism without delay.
For Nigerians, the crisis threatens the safety of the estimated 400 nationals evacuated in the past month and many more living or doing business in South Africa. Disruptions to trade, remittances and diplomatic ties could affect livelihoods at home, while Nigeria’s response—summoning the South African High Commissioner, demanding investigations and preparing further evacuations—signals a heightened diplomatic stance.
What should you know or do? Stay informed through reliable sources, avoid travel to high‑risk areas, register with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria if you are in South Africa, follow any evacuation advisories, and support efforts that hold authorities accountable for protecting citizens abroad. What steps will you take to protect your family or business interests in South Africa, and how should Nigeria balance diplomacy with citizen safety?