By Nana Karikari, Senior Global Affairs Correspondent
At least 130 Nigerian citizens in South Africa have asked their government to fly them home following a surge in xenophobic incidents and anti-immigrant protests across the continent’s most industrialized nation, Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said.
These individuals are the first to apply to a new voluntary repatriation scheme launched by the Nigerian government amid fears that confrontations in South Africa could escalate. Foreign Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu confirmed the start of the initiative on Sunday, noting that the figure is expected to rise as more citizens seek assistance to return home.
Escalating Risks to Citizens and Businesses
The Nigerian government expressed deep concern over the safety of its nationals abroad, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. “Nigerian lives and businesses in SA must not continue to be put at risk,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu wrote on social media.
In a poignant reminder of history, the Minister also pointed to Nigeria’s historical role as a “frontline state” that made great sacrifices for South Africa’s liberation struggles. She called for that legacy to be reflected in the treatment of its citizens today, asserting that the current pattern of hostility is a betrayal of Pan-African solidarity.
Investigation into Fatal Incidents
Tensions have been further exacerbated by the recent deaths of Nigerian nationals involving South African security forces. Two Nigerians were killed in separate incidents last month, including Amamiro Chidiebere Emmanuel, who reportedly died after an assault in Port Elizabeth.
Ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa addressed the need for transparency on Monday, stating, “Nigeria seeks full cooperation in providing autopsy reports, post-mortem documentation, and relevant case files, and in facilitating access to legal processes for the families of the deceased.” He added that accountability should include “appropriate disciplinary and prosecutorial action” where wrongdoing is established.
Protests and Economic Scapegoating
Recent protests in Pretoria and Johannesburg have seen demonstrators demanding tougher action against irregular migration, claiming undocumented foreigners strain public services.
However, experts and migrant-rights groups argue that foreigners are being scapegoated for South Africa’s broader economic struggles. This sentiment has triggered a sharp diplomatic response across West Africa, where leaders have voiced fears that such rhetoric undermines the continent’s collective economic goals.
Political Climate and Upcoming Elections
The timing of the unrest coincides with significant political shifts, as South Africa prepares to hold local government elections on November 4. Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu attributed the rise in hostility to political maneuvering, blaming anti-foreigner opposition parties for stoking “a repetitive wave” of xenophobic rhetoric “to garner votes.” With more protests planned for May 4 and May 8, Nigerian officials are monitoring developments closely to prevent further escalation during this sensitive campaign period.
Regional Outcry and the Ghanaian Response
The crisis has prompted specific intervention from Accra. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa recently summoned South Africa’s envoy in Ghana to protest “continuous xenophobic attacks on Ghanaians and other Africans.” Beyond the diplomatic summons, Ghana has established a 24-hour consular hotline to assist its citizens navigating unrest in provinces like KwaZulu-Natal. These developments have sparked concerns regarding potential regional retaliation against South African-owned business interests across the West African bloc.
Bilateral Dialogue and Root Causes
Diplomatic communication between the two regional powers remains open. South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola spoke via telephone with his Nigerian counterpart. “We reflected on the challenges posed by irregular migration and committed to working to address the root causes, find common and sustainable solutions to this shared concern,” Lamola said.
On Monday, Nigeria summoned South Africa’s acting high commissioner in Abuja to convey its profound concern regarding the documented mistreatment of its citizens.
South African Commitment to Security
South African officials have publicly condemned the violence and promised a crackdown on xenophobia. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia issued a stern warning last week. “Acts of xenophobia, violence, looting or intimidation will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” Cachalia stated.
The government pledged to protect all residents following reports of discrimination from Ghana and other African nations. Despite these assurances, and the activation of a recent Memorandum of Understanding on early warning mechanisms, the Nigerian government continues to prioritize the safe return of those who fear further escalation.
Pan-African Solidarity Under Strain
The current unrest is widely viewed as a threat to the spirit of Pan-Africanism and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). International bodies, including the United Nations and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, have joined Ghana and Nigeria in calling for the dismantling of vigilante groups. As a countrywide shutdown is threatened for early May, the priority for West African governments remains the safety of their nationals. The situation serves as a stark reminder that economic frustrations within a single nation can have profound diplomatic and security implications for the entire African continent.
