Xenophobia: Nigeria Demands South Africa Act to Protect Nationals

Nigeria has issued a stern warning to South Africa, declaring it will not tolerate xenophobic violence against Nigerian citizens and demanding immediate action to protect foreign nationals. Ademola Oshodi, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and Protocol, described the attacks accompanying anti-immigration protests as "disturbing and unacceptable."

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Africa cannot speak of unity while Africans remain unsafe in Africa.

"Africa cannot speak of unity while Africans remain unsafe in Africa," Oshodi stated. He urged South African authorities to "Investigate every reported attack, protect Nigerian communities, restrain vigilante groups, prosecute wrongdoing, and activate the Nigeria–South Africa Early Warning Mechanism without further delay." The warning comes as footage of South Africans attacking African foreigners has circulated widely, intensifying tensions.

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The warning is simple: Nigeria expects action. Investigate every reported attack, protect Nigerian communities, restrain vigilante groups, prosecute wrongdoing, and activate the Nigeria–South Africa Early Warning Mechanism without further delay.

The anti-foreigner campaign, which began in April, has seen a significant escalation, with a June 30 deadline set by aggressors for foreigners to leave the country. Protests have occurred across cities, with chants like "Abahambe!" ("They must go!") echoing through the streets. At least two Nigerians, five Mozambicans, and five Ethiopians have reportedly died due to xenophobic violence.

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Abahambe!

This crisis has strained diplomatic ties, with Ghana and Nigeria summoning South African High Commissioners earlier this year. Nigeria specifically demanded an investigation into the deaths of its citizens. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has publicly condemned the violence and vowed intolerance towards groups inciting tension, though some observers argue the government's actions are insufficient to curb the violence.

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South Africa has every right to enforce its immigration laws. But that responsibility b