By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission has called on the Government of South Africa to take immediate and decisive action to safeguard Nigerian citizens and other black immigrants amid rising xenophobic attacks in parts of the country.
According to an official signed statement by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, the situation has worsened despite earlier diplomatic engagements aimed at easing tensions between both nations.
“While many expected a de-escalation of tensions following earlier engagements between both governments, the situation on the ground is deteriorating,” she stated.
The Commission disclosed that disturbing reports indicate a growing climate of fear among Nigerians residing in South Africa, with children of Nigerian descent reportedly afraid to attend school, while business owners are reluctant to open their shops due to threats of violence, looting, and harassment.
Community leaders, the statement noted, have documented fresh incidents of intimidation and attacks within the last 72 hours, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
NIDCOM urged South African authorities to uphold their obligations under international law and African Union protocols by ensuring the protection of all foreign nationals within their borders.
The Commission strongly rejected what it described as the profiling and blanket criminalisation of Nigerians, stressing that criminality should be treated on an individual basis.
“Crime has no nationality. Any individual, regardless of origin, who commits an offence should be investigated and made to face the full penalty of South African law. However, collective punishment and blanket labeling of an entire nationality are unacceptable and dangerous,” Dabiri-Erewa emphasised.
The Commission called for increased police presence in communities identified as flashpoints, as well as the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible for acts of violence, arson, and extortion.
It also advocated the establishment of a joint Nigeria–South Africa community safety forum involving law enforcement agencies, government officials, and diaspora leaders, alongside clear public messaging condemning xenophobia and discouraging stereotyping.
While urging Nigerians in South Africa to remain law-abiding and avoid high-risk areas, NIDCOM confirmed that it is in active coordination with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria, the Consulate in Johannesburg, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to monitor developments and ensure the safety of citizens.
The Commission, however, commended the majority of South Africans who continue to coexist peacefully with foreign nationals, reaffirming the long-standing historical and diplomatic ties between both countries.
It reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to sustained diplomatic engagement with South Africa to guarantee the safety, dignity, and rights of Nigerians living abroad.
