Nigerians in S’Africa urge FG, African leaders to tackle xenophobic attacks

The Nigerian community in South Africa, represented by the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA), has issued a stark appeal to both the Nigerian Federal Government and broader African leadership. They are calling for urgent intervention to halt what they describe as the escalating and increasingly normalized xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians, within South Africa. NICASA President Frank Onyekwelu highlighted a disturbing trend of incessant harassment, intimidation, and even killings, alongside alleged police brutality, demanding immediate action to prevent further escalation.

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We are alarmed by the increasing normalisation of hostility, manifested through inflammatory rhetorics by certain political actors, unlawful intimidation, and discriminatory enforcement practices by some law enforcement personnel.

NICASA's statement paints a grim picture of the environment for Nigerians and other Africans residing in South Africa. The association expressed alarm over inflammatory rhetoric from certain political figures and discriminatory practices by some law enforcement personnel. These actions, they argue, not only violate human dignity but also threaten the foundational principles of African solidarity. The appeal directed at President Bola Tinubu and other relevant Nigerian authorities underscores the gravity of the situation and the expectation that the protection of citizens abroad is a fundamental obligation.

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These actions not only undermine human dignity, but also threaten the long-standing bonds of African solidarity.

From the perspective of Nigerians living in South Africa, this is not just a matter of safety; it's about dignity and belonging. They emphasize their role as law-abiding, economically contributing, and socially integrated members of society, decrying the "reckless stereotyping and collective criminalisation" they face. The call for a transparent mechanism to report and address abuses, coupled with demands for accountability for errant law enforcement officers, reflects a desire for justice and a safe environment. The efforts of the Nigerian Consul-General are noted as a source of hope, but the broader appeal to national and continental leaders highlights the systemic nature of the problem.

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On behalf of the Nigerian community, I appeal to President Tinubu, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Nigerian Senate and House of Representatives to act with urgency, firmness, and strategic diplomacy in tackling these developments.

This situation is viewed with particular sensitivity within Nigeria and across the continent. While Western media might report on the incidents, the Nigerian perspective emphasizes the betrayal of African brotherhood and the failure of regional solidarity. The Nigerian government's response is closely watched, as any perceived inaction can reinforce a dangerous narrative of abandonment. The call for high-level diplomatic engagement is crucial, aiming not just to protect lives and property but to foster a more inclusive and respectful environment, reinforcing the idea that all Africans deserve safety and dignity wherever they reside on the continent.

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Nigerians in South Africa are law-abiding, economically contributing, and socially integrated members of society. The reckless stereotyping and collective criminalisation of our people must stop.