The Nigerian government has issued a stern caution to South Africa following the start of anti-migrant demonstrations this Tuesday. These protests, led by vigilante organizations such as March and March, emerged after an unofficial June 30 deadline was set for undocumented foreigners to depart the country.
While organizers maintain the protests are peaceful and directed only at those without legal documentation, reports indicate that some lawful foreign residents have faced harassment. Ademola Oshodi, serving as Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Foreign Affairs, stressed that Nigeria requires immediate intervention from South African officials. He called for the protection of Nigerian nationals, the prosecution of those responsible for violence, and the activation of the Nigeria–South Africa Early Warning Mechanism.
Oshodi acknowledged South Africa’s sovereign right to enforce immigration policies but insisted that such duties belong exclusively to state institutions rather than vigilante groups or mobs. He emphasized that the historical ties between the two nations, rooted in Nigeria’s support during the anti-apartheid era, demand mutual respect and protection for each other’s people. Reports suggest at least two Nigerian deaths have occurred since the latest wave of xenophobic tensions began.
Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, representing the protest organizers, stated that the group does not seek violence, looting, or harm toward foreigners. In response, President Cyril Ramaphosa requested that citizens remain calm, noting that while peaceful protest is a constitutional right, criminal behavior will be met with legal consequences. Meanwhile, Nigeria has organized evacuation flights to assist citizens who wish to leave South Africa voluntarily.
