The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has issued an urgent advisory for Nigerians living in South Africa to close their businesses and prioritize personal safety as xenophobic attacks escalate across several major cities. The warning comes amid rising tensions and reports of violence targeting foreign-owned enterprises.
Rising Violence Prompts Urgent Advisory
Fresh waves of xenophobic attacks have prompted NiDCOM to call on Nigerians to “close shops and stay safe.” The commission, in a statement released on Friday, highlighted that protests in cities such as Cape Town, Durban, East London, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal have escalated beyond peaceful demonstrations into looting, destruction of property, and physical assaults. A viral video showing a Nigerian trader being confronted and ordered to leave by a group of South Africans has further heightened fears among foreign nationals, particularly small business owners who depend on daily trade for their livelihoods.
Freedom Day Concerns
Intelligence from the Nigerian consulate indicates that more protests are anticipated, especially around Freedom Day on April 27, with demonstrations expected to continue through April 29 in Gauteng Province. These protests are reportedly aimed at pressuring authorities over the presence of immigrants. NiDCOM Chairman/CEO Abike Dabiri-Erewa urged Nigerians to avoid confrontations, steer clear of crowded areas, and stay updated with local news. The commission specifically advised business owners to shut down operations on April 27 and consider remaining closed for a few days afterward, as unrest tends to peak during this period.
Diplomatic Engagement
NiDCOM stated that it is working closely with the Nigerian Consulate-General in Johannesburg, led by Ninikanwa O. Okey-Uche, to monitor the situation. Additionally, Bianca Onoh is engaging directly with South African authorities to address the crisis. The commission emphasized the importance of staying alert and taking necessary precautions to ensure safety.
Recurring Cycle of Xenophobia
This is not the first instance of xenophobic violence in South Africa since the end of apartheid in 1994. The country has experienced repeated cycles of anti-foreigner attacks, resulting in hundreds of deaths and thousands of displacements. The targets are predominantly other Africans, including migrants from Nigeria and Ghana. Attackers often justify their actions by claiming that foreigners are “taking jobs” or exploiting resources meant for locals, a narrative fueled by economic hardship and political rhetoric. Groups like Operation Dudula have organized campaigns to identify and expel foreign nationals, often blurring the line between community activism and intimidation.
Criticism of Institutional Responses
The African Union, despite having policies against xenophobia and discrimination, has been criticized for its muted response to the current crisis. Similarly, Nigeria’s reaction has been slower and less forceful compared to the 2019 attacks, when the government under Muhammadu Buhari swiftly evacuated citizens and engaged South Africa diplomatically. Under the current administration of Bola Tinubu, foreign policy has been described as more reactive than strategic, with delays in appointing ambassadors leaving key diplomatic missions without strong leadership for over a year.
Conclusion
Observers note that xenophobia in South Africa has become cyclical, flaring up and receding without addressing underlying issues such as economic frustration, weak enforcement against perpetrators, and limited pressure from regional bodies. For now, NiDCOM advises Nigerians to stay alert, remain indoors if possible, and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
