FG Demands South Africa Protect Nigerians as Xenophobic Attacks Worsen

The Nigerian government has formally demanded that South Africa protect Nigerians from worsening xenophobic attacks, as violence, intimidation, and targeted looting continue to spread despite earlier diplomatic assurances.

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) issued a strongly worded statement on Wednesday, signed by its Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa, condemning the South African government’s handling of the crisis. The commission said the situation has deteriorated even after previous engagements between both governments.

What Nigerians Are Facing

Community leaders in South Africa have documented fresh incidents of violence and intimidation within the last 72 hours, according to NIDCOM. Children of Nigerian descent are staying away from school out of fear. Business owners are not opening their shops — afraid of looting and targeted attacks.

“While many expected a de-escalation of tensions following earlier engagements between both governments, the situation on the ground is deteriorating,” Dabiri-Erewa said.

Nigeria’s Four Demands

NIDCOM’s demands are specific: immediate security reinforcement in areas with high Nigerian populations; prosecution of those responsible for attacks; an end to the profiling and collective punishment of Nigerians; and formal diplomatic engagement at the highest levels between Abuja and Pretoria.

The commission rejected what it called the generalisation of Nigerians. “Crime has no nationality. Any individual, regardless of origin, who commits an offence should face the full penalty of South African law. Collective punishment and blanket labelling of an entire nationality are unacceptable and dangerous,” the statement read.

This is a clear step up from the April 24 advisory that told Nigerians to “close shops and stay safe.” The government is now demanding action from Pretoria — not just warning its own citizens.

Sources: Sahara Reporters, Punch, Nairametrics, Independent Nigeria