NiDCOM Urges South Africa To Protect Nigerians As Xenophobic Attacks Intensify
NiDCOM Urges South Africa to Protect Nigerians as Xenophobic Attacks Intensify The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has called on the South African government to urgently protect Nigerians and other black immigrants amid renewed reports of xenophobic attacks, intimidation, and looting, warning that the situation is worsening and creating widespread fear among foreign communities. The appeal comes as multiple reports indicate a fresh wave of hostility targeting African migrants in parts of South Africa.
According to NiDCOM, recent incidents include cases of harassment, shop looting, intimidation, and targeted assaults against foreign nationals, including Nigerians. The commission said the situation has escalated in some communities, with migrants allegedly being forced to close businesses or stay indoors due to fear of attack. In some reported cases, foreign-owned shops were vandalised, while individuals were subjected to threats and physical intimidation amid rising anti-immigrant sentiment. In its statement, NiDCOM urged the South African authorities to take immediate and decisive steps, including
- Increased police presence in affected areas
- Swift arrest and prosecution of perpetrators
- Strong public condemnation of xenophobic violence
- Protection of foreign nationals under South African and international law The agency also called for improved coordination between Nigeria and South Africa to address recurring tensions affecting migrant communities.
NiDCOM proposed the establishment of a Nigeria–South Africa community safety forum, involving
- Law enforcement agencies
- Local community leaders
- Nigerian diaspora representatives
- South African authorities
The aim, according to the commission, is to improve early warning systems and prevent escalation of violence. Reports suggest that Nigerians and other African migrants are increasingly anxious, with some avoiding public spaces and others closing businesses temporarily due to fear of attacks. NiDCOM said it is monitoring the situation closely in coordination with Nigeria’s diplomatic missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg, as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The commission also advised Nigerians in South Africa to remain law abiding, avoid high-risk areas, and stay alert. South Africa has experienced repeated outbreaks of xenophobic violence over the years, often linked to economic hardship, unemployment, and tensions between locals and foreign nationals. Nigerians have frequently been among those targeted during such incidents, with previous episodes resulting in deaths, injuries, and destruction of property. Despite government efforts to curb the violence, migrant rights groups say periodic flare-ups continue to threaten foreign communities. NiDCOM stressed that Nigeria will continue to engage diplomatically with South Africa to ensure the safety, dignity, and rights of its citizens abroad, while urging stronger preventive measures to stop further escalation. As tensions persist, observers warn that failure to address the root causes of xenophobic violence could further strain Nigeria–South Africa relations and endanger migrant communities across the region. Authorities in both countries are expected to intensify consultations in the coming days to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
