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Tag: Xenophobia

  • Top 10 Nigerian News Updates You Should Know Today

    1. Tinubu Orders ICPC Probe into Alleged PFIPC Activities

    President Bola Tinubu has directed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the activities of the alleged Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) and all connected persons across the country within 30 days. The directive follows growing public concern over the operations of the controversial organisation, which has been accused of falsely presenting itself as a government agency.

    The investigation comes after the arrest of the father of the alleged Director-General and a family associate in Ogbomoso, Oyo State. While the Senate has distanced the Presidency from the activities of the group, the directive is being viewed as part of the administration’s commitment to strengthening accountability and tackling impersonation of government institutions. The outcome of the probe is expected to shape public confidence in ongoing anti-corruption efforts.

    2. Senate Rejects Calls to Nationalise MTN, DStv Over Xenophobic Attacks

    The Senate has rejected calls for the Federal Government to nationalise South African-owned companies such as MTN and DStv in response to renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa. Instead, lawmakers condemned the attacks and urged the Federal Government to pursue stronger diplomatic engagement to protect Nigerian citizens and their investments abroad.

    The decision comes as Nigeria continues the evacuation of its citizens, with another batch of returnees expected from South Africa. Lawmakers noted that while the attacks deserve firm action, businesses employing thousands of Nigerians should not become casualties of diplomatic disputes. Efforts are also ongoing to document abandoned properties for possible compensation claims.

    3. Senate Questions North-West Development Commission Over N943 Million Spending

    The Senate has queried the North-West Development Commission over the payment of N943 million in board allowances and delays in appointing key officials. During an oversight session, lawmakers demanded explanations over the expenditure, insisting that public funds must be managed responsibly to achieve the commission’s development objectives.

    The scrutiny reflects the National Assembly’s renewed focus on accountability within regional development commissions. Senators stressed that efficient leadership and prudent financial management are critical to addressing insecurity, poverty and infrastructure deficits across the North-West.

    4. IPMAN Says Direct Dangote Supply Will Reduce Petrol Prices

    The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) says direct fuel supply from the Dangote Refinery will lead to lower petrol prices across the country. The association expressed optimism that the arrangement would reduce distribution costs and improve product availability nationwide.

    Industry stakeholders believe the move could reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products while easing transportation costs and inflationary pressure. Nigerians are now looking forward to further announcements on implementation timelines and expected retail prices.

    5. Airtel Cuts Diesel Consumption by 9.1 Million Litres

    Airtel Nigeria has announced a reduction of 9.1 million litres in diesel consumption as part of its transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources for powering telecommunications infrastructure. The company said the initiative is helping to lower operational costs while reducing its environmental impact.

    The development comes at a time when telecom operators continue to battle rising energy costs caused by unstable electricity supply. Industry observers believe the shift could encourage wider adoption of renewable energy solutions across Nigeria’s technology and telecommunications sectors.

    6. El-Rufai’s Wife Appeals to Tinubu for Fair Treatment

    Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, wife of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to ensure her husband receives fair treatment amid ongoing political developments and investigations involving some of his associates. She recalled El-Rufai’s role in supporting Tinubu’s emergence during the 2023 presidential election.

    Her remarks have added another layer to the political conversations within the ruling APC, where debates over loyalty, reconciliation and internal disagreements continue ahead of the 2027 elections. Political observers say the appeal reflects growing concerns over divisions within the party.

    7. Sanwo-Olu, Umahi Dismiss Claims Coastal Highway Caused Lagos Flooding

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Minister of Works Dave Umahi have rejected claims that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project contributed to the recent flooding experienced in parts of Lagos. Both officials attributed the flooding to heavy rainfall and long-standing drainage challenges rather than the ongoing road construction.

    The clarification follows widespread debates on social media over the environmental impact of the project. Government officials maintained that the highway remains a strategic infrastructure project and assured residents that flood mitigation measures would continue alongside construction activities.

    8. Troops Repel Terrorist Ambush in Borno

    Nigerian troops have successfully repelled a terrorist ambush after an improvised explosive device detonated along a road in Borno State. The military said its personnel responded swiftly, preventing further attacks and sustaining ongoing operations against insurgent groups operating in the North-East.

    Security experts say the incident highlights the continued threat posed by Boko Haram and ISWAP despite recent gains by the armed forces. Military authorities have assured residents that operations will continue until terrorist activities are significantly degraded.

    9. Messi Leads Argentina to Comeback Victory Over Egypt

    Lionel Messi inspired Argentina to a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt in a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 encounter. The South Americans recovered from an early setback to claim all three points, although the match ended in controversy after Egypt protested a disallowed goal.

    The game attracted strong attention from Nigerian football fans following the impressive performances of African teams at the tournament. Discussions have continued over the use of VAR and officiating decisions as the competition enters its decisive stages.

    10. Nigerian Students Win Gold at International STEM Olympiad

    Three Nigerian students have won gold medals at the International STEM Olympiad held in Rome, delivering another impressive achievement for the country’s young scientists. Their outstanding performance earned praise from education stakeholders and reinforced Nigeria’s growing presence in international academic competitions.

    The success has renewed calls for increased investment in science, technology, engineering and mathematics education across the country. Stakeholders believe sustained support for gifted students will help strengthen innovation, research and Nigeria’s future workforce.

  • South Africa Rejects Compensation Demand, Asks Nigeria to Identify Alleged Drug Dens

    The South African government has ruled out paying compensation for illegal structures occupied by foreign nationals, while calling on the Nigerian government to provide information on locations allegedly used for drug-related activities by Nigerians in the country.

    The remarks were made by South Africa’s Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni during a briefing on government policy regarding foreign-owned assets and informal settlements.

    Government insists only legal properties are protected

    Ntshavheni said foreign nationals who legally own assets in South Africa are free to sell them before leaving the country, stressing that only properties recognised under South African law qualify for legal protection.

    According to her, houses are registered with the Deeds Registry, vehicles through the National Traffic Information System (NaTIS), while businesses are registered with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission.

    “If you own a property in South Africa, it’s registered. If it’s a house, it’s registered with the Deeds Register. If you own a car, it’s registered in the NATIS system. If you own a business, it’s registered with the CIPC,” she said.

    She maintained that informal settlements and illegal structures do not qualify as recognised properties under the law.

    Calls for information on alleged drug locations

    The minister also called on the Nigerian government to provide information on places allegedly being used for drug-related activities.

    “We’ll be interested to know where the drug dens of Nigerians are so they can show us where they’ve been holding the drugs so that we can clean the drugs in South Africa quite urgently,” she said.

    Ntshavheni added that authorities would continue clearing illegal settlements in line with court judgments and warned that no compensation would be paid for structures considered unlawful.

    “There’s no compensation that will come from government,” she said, adding that owners of legally registered properties remain free to dispose of their assets through South Africa’s property market before leaving the country.

    The comments come amid ongoing discussions over immigration enforcement, illegal settlements and crime involving foreign nationals in South Africa.

     

  • Top 10 News Updates You Should Know Today

    1. FG Moves to Scrap JSS/SSS Structure to Reduce School Dropouts

    The Federal Government has announced plans to abolish the separation between Junior Secondary School and Senior Secondary School as part of sweeping education reforms aimed at reducing Nigeria’s out-of-school population, estimated at more than 20 million children. Education authorities said the current structure has contributed to high dropout rates, particularly after the junior secondary level.

    Officials said the proposed reform will create a more seamless learning system while improving student retention and aligning education with national development priorities. Stakeholders have welcomed the initiative but are calling for broad consultations before implementation begins, with pilot programmes expected in selected states.

    2. Gunmen Abduct Students During Exams in Borno, Troops Rescue Some

    Armed men attacked a secondary school in Lassa, Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, abducting students sitting for national examinations. Security forces launched a rescue operation shortly after the attack, freeing several students and teachers, although some victims are still missing.

    The incident has renewed concerns about the safety of schools in conflict-affected communities. Parents and education stakeholders have urged the government to strengthen security around examination centres as military operations continue in the area.

    3. Court Grants Sowore N200 Million Bail

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore bail in the sum of N200 million in his ongoing cybercrime trial. The court ordered him to produce two sureties and surrender his international passport pending the conclusion of the case.

    The ruling comes after an earlier revocation of his bail and has drawn reactions from supporters and civil society groups. Proceedings in the trial will continue as the court considers the substantive charges against him.

    4. Third Batch of Nigerians Evacuated from South Africa Arrives

    The third batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa has arrived in Lagos under the Federal Government’s voluntary repatriation programme following renewed xenophobic tensions. Officials received the returnees at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport and assured them of necessary support.

    The evacuation follows weeks of anti-immigrant protests in parts of South Africa. Nigerian authorities say more flights will be arranged as efforts continue to bring home citizens who registered for the programme.

    5. Tinubu Inaugurates New Road Projects

    President Bola Tinubu has inaugurated additional road infrastructure projects as part of his administration’s efforts to stimulate economic growth through improved transportation networks. The projects are expected to enhance connectivity, create jobs and support commercial activities.

    Government officials said infrastructure development remains a key component of ongoing economic reforms. More projects are expected to be commissioned in different parts of the country in the coming months.

    6. ASUU Issues Fresh Strike Warning to State Governments

    The Academic Staff Union of Universities has threatened industrial action in some state-owned universities over the non-implementation of agreements reached in 2025. The union accused affected state governments of failing to address welfare issues, funding and other outstanding commitments.

    The warning has raised concerns among students and parents over possible disruptions to academic activities. Discussions between the union and government officials are expected to continue in an effort to avert another strike.

    7. NDC Uploads Peter Obi’s Name on INEC Portal

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress has uploaded the name of Peter Obi and other party candidates on the INEC portal while challenging a court decision affecting the party’s registration. The move comes as legal proceedings over the party’s status continue.

    The development has generated fresh political discussions ahead of the 2027 general election. Party officials insist they remain confident of a favourable outcome as the appeal process continues.

    8. Nigerian Tech Firm Launches AI Workforce Platform

    Radiant diGiLog has unveiled an artificial intelligence-powered workforce management platform designed to help organisations manage attendance, payroll, scheduling and human resource operations more efficiently.

    Technology experts say the platform reflects the continued growth of Nigeria’s digital economy and increasing adoption of AI solutions by local businesses. The company plans to expand partnerships with organisations across different sectors.

    9. Delta Police Report Progress Against Kidnapping

    The Delta State Police Command says it has recorded major successes in the fight against kidnapping and armed robbery through intelligence-led operations across the state. Authorities said recent operations resulted in several arrests and the recovery of weapons.

    Residents have welcomed the reported progress but urged security agencies to sustain the momentum. Police say investigations remain ongoing as they target other criminal groups.

    10. African Stars Shine in Race for FIFA Best Young Player Award

    Five African footballers have emerged among the leading contenders for the FIFA Best Young Player Award at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup. Their performances have attracted global attention and generated excitement across the continent.

    Football analysts say the emergence of young African talents highlights the continent’s growing influence on the global stage. Nigerian fans have also followed the competition closely despite the Super Eagles’ absence from the tournament.

     

  • Looting Erupts in South African Town as Foreign-Owned Shops Targeted After Deportation Dispute

    Several shops owned by foreign nationals were looted in Estcourt, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, on Friday following rising tensions over a controversial ultimatum issued to undocumented foreign business owners.

    The incident occurred just days after a deadline given by local authorities for certain foreign traders to leave the town expired.

    Six Foreign-Owned Shops Looted

    KwaZulu-Natal Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Robert Netshiunda, confirmed that six foreign-owned shops were targeted during the unrest.

    According to him, no injuries were reported and law enforcement officers quickly moved to restore calm in the area.

    “Six shops owned by foreign nationals were looted and calm has been restored in the area,” Netshiunda said.

    He added that police are currently assessing the situation while investigations continue.

    Tensions Linked to Court Challenge

    Authorities believe the unrest may be connected to a legal dispute involving Estcourt Mayor Mduduzi Myeza.

    The mayor had reportedly issued a 21-day deadline directing undocumented foreign business owners to leave the town.

    The deadline expired on May 27, prompting affected traders to challenge the directive in court on May 26.

    Police said some residents may have reacted to the legal action taken by the foreign nationals against the mayor’s decision.

    Authorities Seek Lasting Solution

    Netshiunda disclosed that a meeting involving the mayor’s office, police officials and property owners was scheduled for Friday afternoon.

    The gathering is expected to address growing tensions between local residents, foreign nationals and government authorities.

    Officials hope the discussions will help prevent further violence and promote peaceful coexistence within the community.

    Fresh Concerns Over Xenophobic Attacks

    The incident has renewed concerns about recurring anti-foreigner sentiment in parts of South Africa, where foreign-owned businesses have frequently been targeted during periods of social and economic tension.

    While no casualties were reported in the latest unrest, the attack has once again highlighted the fragile relationship between local communities and migrant business owners in some areas of the country.

  • Malema Questions Job Creation Claims After Ghana Repatriates Citizens From South Africa

    Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has questioned claims that removing African migrants from South Africa would solve the country’s unemployment crisis following the recent repatriation of Ghanaian citizens amid rising xenophobic tensions.

    Malema made the remarks during a media interaction in late May 2026 after Ghana evacuated hundreds of its nationals from South Africa over growing safety concerns linked to anti-immigrant protests and attacks.

    Ghana Repatriates Citizens Amid Tensions

    The Ghanaian government recently organised voluntary repatriation flights for about 300 citizens from South Africa, with more departures expected in the coming days.

    The move followed increasing reports of harassment, intimidation and xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals, particularly migrants from other African countries.

    According to reports, nearly 900 Ghanaians registered for evacuation after protests and threats escalated in some communities. South African authorities reportedly stated that only a small number of those repatriated were legally undocumented.

    Malema Rejects Anti-Migrant Narrative

    Reacting to the development, Malema challenged arguments that foreign nationals are responsible for South Africa’s economic struggles and unemployment rate.

    “Because the Ghanaians are gone now, 300 of them. How many 300 jobs were created after the Ghanaians have left?” he asked.

    The opposition politician described the narrative blaming migrants for job losses as “a myth” and “a lie,” arguing that such rhetoric only deepens division among Africans and fuels xenophobia.

    Malema also criticised Ghana’s decision to rapidly evacuate its citizens, saying the move painted all South Africans negatively and reduced opportunities for diplomatic engagement.

    Debate Over Immigration and Unemployment

    South Africa continues to battle one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, with economic inequality, poverty and rising crime remaining major concerns.

    Recent anti-immigrant demonstrations have seen protesters demand that undocumented foreigners leave the country, with some groups linking migrants to crime and pressure on public services.

    However, analysts and rights groups have repeatedly warned against scapegoating migrants for broader structural economic failures, including corruption, weak governance and poor service delivery.

    Malema has consistently opposed xenophobic violence, while maintaining that immigration laws should still be enforced legally and peacefully.

    Social Media Reactions Intensify

    The comments have triggered widespread reactions across social media platforms, with Africans from different countries debating migration, regional unity and economic hardship.

    Some users supported Malema’s position, arguing that African countries should focus on unity and economic cooperation rather than division.

    Others defended tougher immigration enforcement, insisting that South Africa has a right to control illegal migration and protect local jobs.

    The controversy has again highlighted growing tensions between Pan-African ideals promoted under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and frustrations surrounding unemployment and insecurity across the continent.

    Diplomatic Concerns Remain

    Although both Ghanaian and South African officials have condemned violence and called for calm, concerns remain over recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

    Observers say the latest crisis underscores the urgent need for stronger regional cooperation, economic reforms and policies capable of addressing youth unemployment and insecurity across Africa.

    The development also raises fresh questions about how African countries can balance migration policies, economic integration and citizen protection without inflaming ethnic or national tensions.

  • Oshiomhole Defends Call to Nationalise MTN Over Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa

    Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has defended his controversial call for the nationalisation of MTN and other South African-owned companies operating in Nigeria following renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.

    Speaking during an interview on Arise News on Tuesday, Oshiomhole argued that the Nigerian government must prioritise the safety and dignity of its citizens above foreign investment concerns.

    “Nigerian lives must come first”

    The former Edo State governor insisted that Nigeria should consider restructuring ownership of South African companies if attacks on Nigerians continue.

    “I am aware that MTN is quoted, and therefore Nigerian shareholders can hold on, but we take away the South African rights,” he said.

    According to him, affected companies could later be re-privatised under Nigerian ownership.

    “That’s why I say you nationalise, and then you reprivatise it so that Nigerians can take it over, and the profit they are taking out of Nigeria will be retained here. There will be no South African share in it,” he added.

    Oshiomhole also suggested that similar measures could apply to foreign financial institutions operating in Nigeria.

    Links proposal to xenophobic attacks

    The senator tied his position directly to repeated attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa, insisting that stronger economic measures were necessary.

    He argued that previous diplomatic engagements had failed to stop the violence.

    “When a country, for the first time, kills Nigerians, they got away with it. Second time, they riot, they kill Nigerians, they got away with it. Third time, they kill Nigerians, they got away with it,” he said.

    Oshiomhole also referenced agreements reached during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, claiming the commitments were not honoured.

    “Under Buhari, there was an agreement. They broke it. They are killing Nigerians. Nobody is in prison for murder,” he stated.

    Concerns over investors dismissed

    Responding to concerns that nationalisation could discourage foreign investment, Oshiomhole maintained that human lives should outweigh economic interests.

    “If anything leads to the death of Nigeria, what is the value of wealth to the dead? We don’t want investors who invest at the expense of human blood,” he said.

    He further questioned whether foreign capital should be prioritised over the safety of Nigerian citizens abroad.

    “Is foreign investor or foreign dollar more important than the life of a Nigerian?” he asked.

    South Africa reacts to renewed violence

    The remarks come amid renewed protests and attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of Durban, Cape Town, East London and KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa.

    South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the attacks, describing the perpetrators as opportunists exploiting social and economic frustrations.

    In Nigeria, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission confirmed that the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg is engaging South African authorities over the safety of Nigerians in the country.

    The latest comments by Oshiomhole have added fresh debate to ongoing conversations around xenophobia, diplomatic retaliation, and Nigeria’s relationship with foreign investors.

  • Senate Tension Rises as Oshiomhole Targets MTN, DSTV Over SA Crisis

    Tension rose in the Senate on Tuesday as Senator Adams Oshiomhole called for economic sanctions against South African companies operating in Nigeria over renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians.

    His remarks came as lawmakers condemned the violence and urged urgent diplomatic action.

    Oshiomhole pushes for economic retaliation

    Speaking during plenary, Oshiomhole invoked the principle of reciprocity, arguing that Nigeria must respond firmly.

    “I don’t want this Senate to be shedding tears… If you hit me, I’ll hit you,” he said.

    He proposed the withdrawal of operating licences for MTN and DSTV, alleging that both companies repatriate significant revenue while Nigerians face hostility in South Africa.

    Call for licence revocation

    The senator urged the Federal Government to consider nationalising MTN and revoking its licence.

    He also called for similar action against DSTV, describing both firms as major economic actors with strong ties to South Africa.

    According to him, such steps would not only protect Nigerians but also create opportunities for local businesses.

    Lawmakers raise safety concerns

    Senator Victor Umeh also expressed concern over the safety of Nigerians abroad.

    He described reports from South Africa as alarming, noting that many Nigerians are unable to move freely due to fear of attacks.

    Umeh called on the African Union to intervene and consider sanctions against South Africa.

    Senate rejects proposal

    Despite the strong calls, the Senate declined to support the revocation of licences for MTN and DSTV.

    Lawmakers described the suggestion as uncalled for, even as they unanimously condemned the xenophobic attacks.

    They labelled the violence “barbaric, unlawful and inconsistent with African brotherhood.”

    Diplomatic pressure builds

    The development reflects growing pressure on the Federal Government to take decisive action in protecting Nigerians abroad.

    It also highlights the delicate balance between economic interests and diplomatic relations in responding to international crises.

  • FG Moves to Evacuate 130 Nigerians from South Africa Over Xenophobic Attacks

    The Federal Government has begun plans to evacuate Nigerians from South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks, with at least 130 citizens already registered for voluntary repatriation.

    The move comes amid rising concerns over violence targeting foreign nationals.

    FG raises alarm over attacks

    Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said the evacuation plan is aimed at protecting Nigerians as tensions escalate.

    She noted that more citizens are expected to register in the coming days as fears grow over safety.

    The minister also conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s concern, stating that Nigeria would not tolerate continued attacks on its citizens and their businesses.

    Nigeria summons South African envoy

    In response to the situation, the Federal Government has summoned South Africa’s acting High Commissioner.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said discussions would focus on recent anti-immigrant protests and reported cases of harassment, violence and destruction of Nigerian-owned businesses.

    Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed the need for justice, citing the killing of two Nigerians in separate incidents allegedly involving security personnel.

    Evacuation plan underway

    According to the minister, efforts are ongoing to compile a register of Nigerians in South Africa and arrange evacuation flights for those willing to return.

    She described the process as part of broader steps to ensure the safety and welfare of Nigerians abroad.

    Wider regional concern

    Reports indicate that other African nationals have also been affected by the violence, including Ethiopian migrants.

    Despite condemnation of the attacks by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, anti-immigrant protests have continued in some areas.

    There have also been reports of individuals being stopped in public places and asked to present identification, while some foreign-owned businesses were forced to shut down during protests.

    The development has drawn reactions across the continent, with Ghana also raising concerns after a viral video showed one of its citizens being confronted over immigration status.

    South Africa is estimated to host about 2.4 million documented migrants, although the actual number is believed to be higher.

  • Malema Blasts Xenophobic Attacks, Questions Job Claims as Nigerians Targeted in South Africa

    Julius Malema, leader of South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has condemned rising xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals, including Nigerians, questioning the justification behind the violence.

    Malema challenges narrative on job losses

    Speaking amid growing tension, Malema criticised claims that immigrants are responsible for unemployment in South Africa.

    “You say Zimbabweans take your job, Nigerians take your jobs… after doing all this, how many jobs have you created,” he asked.

    He argued that attacks on foreign nationals have failed to produce any economic benefit.

    Destruction of businesses under fire

    Malema also condemned the destruction of immigrant-owned businesses, noting that such actions only worsen unemployment.

    “You close a shop that hires five people… after closing that shop, how many jobs have you created,” he said.

    He described those behind the attacks as lacking the capacity to address economic challenges constructively.

    Rejects politics built on division

    The EFF leader distanced himself from rhetoric that promotes hostility toward other Africans, insisting he would not seek support based on hate.

    “I don’t want votes that say to me, I must hate Africans for you to vote for me,” he stated.

    Nigerian government raises alarm

    The comments come as Nigerians in South Africa report renewed harassment, intimidation, and violence, with businesses looted and communities destabilised.

    The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) condemned the situation, describing it as worsening despite diplomatic efforts.

    “While many expected a de-escalation… the situation on the ground is deteriorating,” NIDCOM chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa said.

    Deaths and fear grip affected communities

    NIDCOM disclosed that children of Nigerian descent are increasingly afraid to attend school, while many business owners have shut down over safety concerns.

    The Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg also confirmed the deaths of two Nigerians, Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, amid the unrest.

    The commission called for urgent intervention, including increased security in affected communities and an end to profiling of Nigerians.

     

  • Police Disperse Anti-Foreigner Protest Targeting Nigerians

    South African police fired rubber bullets and teargas on Wednesday to break up a large anti-foreigner protest in the coastal city of Durban, where demonstrators specifically named Nigerians among the foreigners they want expelled from the country.

    What happened in Durban

    Hundreds of protesters, including members of political parties and the xenophobic vigilante group Operation Dudula, marched through Durban’s streets waving placards and chanting against undocumented immigrants.

    Several shop owners shut their businesses ahead of the march, fearing looting and violence. A small group of protesters reportedly harassed bystanders and looted shops before police moved in to disperse the crowd.

    Who led the protest and what they said

    ActionSA party leader Herman Mashaba addressed the crowd, singling out Nigeria, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Mexico among the countries whose nationals he said were flooding South Africa.

    “We are seeing our government allowing our country to be flooded by groups from all over the world,” Mashaba said. “So we are saying to our government this is unacceptable.”

    The deeper context

    The protest reflects long-running tensions in South Africa over unemployment and competition for jobs and housing.

    South Africa’s statistics agency puts the national unemployment rate at nearly 32 per cent, one of the highest in the world. Approximately three million foreigners — around 5.1 per cent of the population — currently live in the country.

    Nigerians have repeatedly been targeted in xenophobic attacks in South Africa over the years, with previous waves of violence in 2008, 2015, and 2019 displacing thousands and forcing the temporary closure of Nigerian businesses.

    Nigeria’s position

    The Nigerian government has not yet issued a formal response to Wednesday’s protest. The Federal Government and the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria have in past incidents summoned South African envoys in Nigeria and issued formal protests following attacks on Nigerian nationals.

    Nigerians living in South Africa are urged to remain calm, avoid large gatherings, and stay in contact with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria or the Consulate General in Johannesburg in the event of any threat to their safety.

    No date has been set for further protests, but Operation Dudula and allied groups have previously indicated they intend to continue pressure on the South African government over immigration policy. The Nigerian government is expected to monitor the situation closely given the large number of Nigerian nationals residing in South Africa.