Wayne Lumbasi
Nigeria has begun preparations to voluntarily repatriate its citizens from South Africa amid renewed tensions linked to anti-foreigner protests and rising fears of xenophobic violence. The move follows growing anxiety among migrant communities after demonstrations in several cities reignited long-standing concerns about the safety of foreign nationals living in the country.
Officials in Nigeria say the evacuation plan is intended to support citizens who wish to return home temporarily while authorities monitor the evolving situation. According to the country’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, at least 130 Nigerians have already registered for voluntary evacuation flights, with the number expected to rise as the registration process continues through Nigerian diplomatic missions.
The repatriation arrangement follows directives from Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who ordered officials to closely monitor developments and prioritize the safety of Nigerians living abroad.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu explained that authorities are working with Nigerian associations and diplomatic staff in South Africa to collect details of citizens seeking assistance and to coordinate possible evacuation flights.
Tensions escalated after anti-immigration demonstrations were reported in major urban centres including Johannesburg and Pretoria. Protesters have accused undocumented migrants of contributing to unemployment, crime, and economic hardship, a narrative that has frequently fueled xenophobic rhetoric in the country. Although recent protests were largely contained by security forces, the demonstrations heightened fears among foreign communities, particularly migrants from other African nations.
Authorities also confirmed that two Nigerians died in separate incidents linked to interactions with security personnel, further intensifying concern among diaspora communities. One of the victims reportedly succumbed to injuries after being beaten by members of the South African National Defence Force in April, a case that has sparked calls for investigation and accountability.
Nigerian diplomatic missions in South Africa have since issued safety advisories urging citizens to remain vigilant, avoid protest areas, and maintain contact with embassy officials. At the same time, Abuja has engaged South African authorities through diplomatic channels to ensure the protection of Nigerians and to prevent further escalation.
The latest tensions highlight the persistence of xenophobia in South Africa, where periodic outbreaks of violence against foreign nationals have strained relations with other African countries in the past. While the voluntary repatriation programme is not mandatory, Nigerian officials say it is a precautionary measure designed to provide support for citizens who feel unsafe as the situation continues to unfold.
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