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Two Nigerians killed in fresh xenophobic attacks in South Africa, 130 register for voluntary repatriation
Fresh xenophobic attacks in South Africa have claimed the lives of two Nigerians as anti-immigration groups set a June 30 deadline for undocumented foreigners to leave. Nigeria's Foreign Minister has summoned South Africa's Acting High Commissioner over the violence.
Fresh xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians in South Africa have resulted in the deaths of two Nigerian nationals, prompting urgent diplomatic action from Abuja. Anti-immigration groups, including Operation Dudula, have issued a June 30 deadline for all undocumented foreigners to leave the country, escalating tensions that have simmered for years.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission has advised Nigerian nationals in South Africa to close their shops and remain indoors for their safety. Citizens have been urged to avoid confrontations, stay away from crowded areas and monitor local news for developments. NIDCOM confirmed it is working closely with the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg to track the situation.
Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegu Ujuku, disclosed that at least 130 Nigerians have registered for voluntary repatriation, with expectations that more may come forward in the coming days. The federal government has also summoned the Acting High Commissioner of South Africa to Nigeria for a meeting to address the attacks.
The violence follows a familiar pattern in which attackers claim foreigners are taking jobs and benefiting from resources intended for South African citizens. Economic hardship and political rhetoric continue to fuel hostility toward foreign nationals, with groups like Operation Dudula organising campaigns that frequently cross the line from protest into intimidation and outright violence.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the attacks as criminal acts carried out by opportunists exploiting the legitimate grievances of the poor. However, critics argue that insufficient government action has emboldened anti-immigrant groups to continue targeting foreign nationals with impunity, according to Channels Television.