Nigeria Confronts South Africa Over Killings of 98 Citizens, Demands End to Xenophobic Attacks

Nigeria has lodged a strong diplomatic protest against South Africa over the persistent killings of its citizens, revealing that at least 98 Nigerians have lost their lives since 2022 due to mob violence, hate crimes, and extra-judicial killings. The Nigerian government is demanding urgent action from Pretoria to end the violence and bring those responsible to justice.

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no fewer than 98 Nigerians had lost their lives in the country since 2022 through mob violence, hate-related attacks and extra-judicial killings, describing the trend as unacceptable.

During a high-level meeting in Abuja, Nigeria's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's directive, highlighting the growing diplomatic concern over repeated attacks on Nigerians. He stressed that the trend is unacceptable and urged South Africa to protect foreign nationals, prosecute offenders, and prevent future incidents. Enikanolaiye reminded South Africa of Nigeria's historical support during its liberation struggle, stating that such a relationship should not be jeopardized by xenophobic violence.

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while criminality should never be condoned, anyone accused of breaking the law must be subjected to due judicial process rather than jungle justice.

The Nigerian delegation also pointed to the humanitarian impact, noting the recent evacuation of 1,490 Nigerians who fled insecurity and fear. In response, South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, reaffirmed his country's commitment to combating xenophobia and all forms of violence. However, he asserted South Africa's sovereign right to enforce immigration laws and raised concerns about alleged involvement of some Nigerians in organized crime.

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the longstanding relationship between both countries should not be undermined by recurring xenophobic violence.

Lamola stated that South African security agencies have arrested suspects linked to recent attacks and that prosecutions are underway. He called for enhanced collaboration between the two nations to address transnational organized crime while safeguarding the rights of law-abiding citizens. The meeting aimed to prevent further deterioration of bilateral relations between Africa's two largest economies.

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South Africa retains the sovereign right to enforce its immigration laws and expressed concern over the alleged involvement of some Nigerian nationals in organised criminal activities.