FG demands Justice for Nigerians killed in South Africa, urges crackdown on xenophobic attacks

The Federal Government has urged South Africa to take decisive action against recurring attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals, insisting that perpetrators of xenophobic violence must be identified, arrested and prosecuted.

The call was made on Monday in Abuja during a meeting between Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, and South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, who visited Nigeria as the Special Envoy of President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Lamola delivered a message from President Ramaphosa to President Bola Tinubu, reaffirming the longstanding diplomatic and historical ties between both countries.

Speaking during the talks, Enikanolaiye underscored Nigeria’s pivotal role in South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle, as well as its contributions to the establishment of the African Union and the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD).

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Despite the enduring relationship, the minister expressed deep concern over the continued attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, revealing that no fewer than 98 Nigerians had been killed in mob and hate-related incidents since 2022.

He said Nigerians had remained among the primary victims of what he described as “Afrophobia,” stressing that while Nigeria would never condone drug trafficking or any criminal activity, anyone accused of wrongdoing must be prosecuted in accordance with South Africa’s Constitution, the rule of law and international human rights standards.

“We will never support drug trafficking or any criminal conduct. However, anyone accused of committing an offence must be prosecuted in accordance with South Africa’s Constitution, the rule of law and international human rights obligations,” Enikanolaiye said.

He maintained that all foreign nationals were entitled to equal protection under international law and urged South African authorities to strengthen measures to curb xenophobic violence.

According to him, the inability of the authorities to adequately protect foreign residents raises serious concerns about public safety and the government’s obligation to ensure justice for all.

He warned that persistent Afrophobic attacks could erode the strategic partnership and shared aspirations between Nigeria and South Africa.

Responding, Lamola described Nigeria as one of South Africa’s closest allies, saying his visit was aimed at reinforcing the historic bond forged during the liberation struggle.

He expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s unwavering support during the anti-apartheid era, noting that South Africans remained grateful for the sacrifices made in the fight for their freedom.

Lamola reaffirmed his country’s opposition to xenophobia and all forms of discrimination against people residing in South Africa.

“President Ramaphosa has consistently spoken against xenophobia, racism, homophobia, violence and all forms of intolerance directed at anyone living within South Africa,” he said.

The South African minister added that his government would continue to enforce immigration laws while combating crimes such as drug trafficking and cybercrime within the framework of the rule of law.

He also stressed that effective migration management required stronger collaboration among African nations to facilitate safe, orderly and regular movement of people in line with African Union protocols