The House of Representatives has initiated an inquiry into the economic and human toll of repeated xenophobic incidents against Nigerians in South Africa. This legislative action stems from a motion by Babajimi Benson, a representative from Lagos State, who highlighted the persistent violence that has plagued Nigerians for roughly twenty years. Lawmakers are now tasking committees with evaluating property destruction and finding pathways for victims to receive compensation while boosting diplomatic protections.
Benson noted that despite Nigeria’s historical support during the anti-apartheid era, its citizens continue to endure systemic hate campaigns, arson, and looting. He specifically referenced major outbreaks of violence occurring between 2008 and 2021, as well as the rising influence of groups like Operation Dudula that threaten foreign nationals.
Simultaneously, Frank Onyekwelu, President of the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA), observed that the closure of foreign-owned businesses is now causing economic hardship for local South African communities. He explained that as commercial hubs shut down and consumer prices rise, South Africans are beginning to see the practical fallout of their anti-immigrant stance. Onyekwelu emphasized that NICASA continues to receive frequent reports of threats against Nigerians, many of whom have sacrificed years of investment and lost homes. The Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate in Johannesburg are currently documenting these losses to prepare for potential future claims.
