Nigerians, others to suffer fresh attacks in South Africa

By Odunewu Segun

Another xenophobic attack against Nigerians and other African nationals, especially Zimbabweans and Tanzanians may be brewing again as a group in South African has called on South Africans to protest against these nationals living in South Africa, tomorrow, Friday 24, National Daily has gathered.

The group which goes by name Mamelodi Concerned Residence in a statement made available to National Daily accused Nigerians, Zimbabweans, Tanzanians and even nationals from Pakistan of taking over jobs meant for South Africans.

In the statement, it specifically targets Nigerians, Zimbabweans, Tanzanians and Pakistanis staying in South Africa.

“Unemployment is 34% in South Africa but Government give people asylum seekers status when there is no work in South Africa,” the statement said.

The group also accused Nigerians and other African nationals living in South Africa of fueling crime rates in the country by dealing in drugs and other social vices.

It has therefore called upon other South Africans to come out and March against illegal immigrants living in South African, tomorrow Friday 24.

Meanwhile, the President of Nigeria Union, which is the Union of Nigerian Community in South Africa, Mr. Ikechukwu Anyene confirmed the attacks and looting of Nigerian-owned businesses in Pretoria West.

“As we speak, five buildings with Nigerian businesses, including a church have been looted and burned by South Africans. One of the buildings is a mechanic garage with 28 cars under repairs, with other vital documents, were burned during the attack.”

Anyene said the union had informed Nigerians in South Africa to be vigilant in the face of renewed xenophobic attacks. According to him, the union received information that there will be xenophobic attacks against foreigners on Feb. 23 and Feb. 24.

Anyene called on the Federal Government to persuade its South African counterpart to protect Nigerians in their country.