Falana Drags South Africa Before African Rights Commission Over Xenophobic Attacks

The persistent scourge of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa has once again drawn the attention of prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN. His latest petition to the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights marks a significant escalation in the demand for accountability and justice for victims of this recurring violence. Falana's assertion that these attacks are not isolated incidents but rather a reflection of a 'systemic failure' by South African authorities underscores the deep-seated nature of the problem.

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The attacks are neither isolated nor sporadic, but reflect a “systemic failure” by South African authorities to safeguard the rights and lives of African migrants.

The detailed account of alleged human rights violations, including killings, physical assaults, arbitrary arrests, and destruction of businesses, paints a grim picture of the challenges faced by foreign nationals in South Africa. The specific mention of recent incidents involving Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, who reportedly died in April 2026 in separate incidents allegedly involving South African security forces, highlights the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for thorough investigation and redress.

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There remained “a persistent, widespread and well-documented pattern of xenophobic violence, intimidation and discrimination against Nigerians and other African nationals in the Republic of South Africa”.

Falana's petition also brings to light the alarming trend of mob attacks and inflammatory anti-foreigner rhetoric circulating in South Africa. Videos circulating in May 2026, showing groups of South Africans assaulting Black foreign nationals, serve as stark evidence of the escalating hostility. The fact that diplomatic missions, including the Nigerian High Commission, have issued security advisories, and that over 130 Nigerians have requested evacuation, speaks volumes about the pervasive fear and insecurity experienced by these communities. This situation demands not only the intervention of regional human rights bodies but also a concerted effort from South Africa to address the root causes of xenophobia and ensure the safety and dignity of all its residents.

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The incidents had shocked the Nigerian community and raised serious concerns over the conduct and accountability of South African security operatives.