A small group of Nigerian nationals gathered outside the South African High Commission in Abuja on Thursday, calling for urgent intervention to protect Nigerians living in South Africa. The demonstration, though limited in size, reflects growing concern over rising tensions and reports of hostility toward foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians, in parts of South Africa.
According to reports, approximately 12 protesters assembled peacefully outside the diplomatic mission, hoping to deliver a message directly to the South African High Commissioner. Their intention, they said, was not to incite unrest but to raise awareness about what they described as increasing insecurity faced by Nigerians abroad.
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However, the group was denied entry into the premises. Security personnel, supported by police officers, had barricaded the building, preventing access. The protesters expressed frustration at what they perceived as a lack of willingness by officials to engage with them. Some accused the High Commissioner of avoiding dialogue, stating that their concerns deserved immediate attention.
Despite the tension, the protesters maintained that their gathering was a form of notification rather than a formal protest. They voiced fears that Nigerians in South Africa are being targeted amid ongoing anti-foreigner sentiments. One protester emphasised that their primary goal was to ensure the safety and protection of their fellow citizens living abroad.
The demonstration comes at a time when the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has raised alarm over what it describes as worsening conditions for Nigerians and other black immigrants in South Africa. The commission highlighted reports suggesting that many Nigerian nationals are living in fear due to alleged threats, harassment, and sporadic attacks.
NIDCOM Chairperson, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, expressed concern over the situation, noting that some Nigerian families are becoming increasingly reluctant to go about their daily activities. There have been claims that children of Nigerian descent are afraid to attend school, while some business owners have temporarily shut down operations due to safety concerns.
The commission also cautioned against generalising criminal behaviour based on nationality. It stressed that crime should be treated as an individual matter and that anyone found guilty of wrongdoing should face the full consequences under South African law, regardless of their origin. NIDCOM strongly condemned what it described as collective blame and profiling, warning that such actions could further escalate tensions.
Meanwhile, concerns about the safety of foreign nationals in South Africa are not limited to Nigeria. The government of Ghana has also taken diplomatic steps, summoning South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner, Thando Dalamba, following reports of xenophobic incidents affecting its citizens.
Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, stated that his government is deeply обесп concerned about the safety of Ghanaians residing in South Africa. He confirmed that an official protest has been lodged, urging South African authorities to take swift and decisive action to prevent further incidents.
On the international stage, António Guterres has also weighed in on the issue. In a recent statement, he condemned acts of xenophobic violence and warned against vigilantism and hate speech. He emphasised that such actions undermine democratic values and violate fundamental human rights.
As tensions continue to simmer, calls are growing louder for the South African government to address the situation urgently, restore calm, and ensure the safety of all residents, regardless of nationality.
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