The United Nations has expressed deep concern over renewed reports of xenophobic violence in South Africa, urging authorities to take immediate steps to protect foreign nationals and prevent further escalation. Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the attacks and called for urgent action to safeguard the rights and dignity of all residents.
HURIWA Calls for Diplomatic Reset
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria has called on the Federal Government to urgently review its diplomatic approach and consider stronger measures to protect citizens abroad. In a statement signed by National Coordinator Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA expressed outrage over the recent deaths of Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, reportedly linked to encounters with South African security operatives. The organization described these incidents as part of a disturbing pattern of xenophobic violence and discriminatory treatment against Nigerians in South Africa.
NICASA Alleges Police Brutality
The Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa has alleged harassment and police brutality against Nigerians and other African nationals. NICASA President Frank Onyekwelu said the situation calls for urgent intervention by African leaders. He stated, "We are alarmed by the increasing normalisation of hostility, manifested through inflammatory rhetoric by certain political actors, unlawful intimidation, and discriminatory enforcement practices by some law enforcement personnel."
UN Secretary-General Expresses Grief
In a statement issued yesterday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed grief following reports of attacks targeting migrants and non-nationals, warning that such incidents pose a threat to social cohesion and the rule of law. The UN noted reports of harassment, intimidation, and violence in parts of the country and urged South African authorities to guarantee the safety and dignity of all residents, regardless of nationality or origin.
Need for Stronger Enforcement
While acknowledging South Africa's constitutional protections for human rights, the UN stressed the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms to deter perpetrators and rebuild trust within affected communities. The appeal comes amid growing criticism from regional governments and human rights organizations, many of whom have condemned the attacks and called for accountability.
HURIWA Demands Investigations
HURIWA called for urgent, transparent, and independent investigations by South African authorities, insisting that those responsible must be held accountable. The organization described the trend as a violation of the right to life and human dignity, as well as a breach of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
