Xenophobic Attacks: ‘Nigerians are not criminals, stop killing us,’ FG urges South Africa

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has condemned the ongoing xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa, calling on the South African government to take immediate action to protect Nigerian citizens and black immigrants.

NIDCOM expressed growing concern over the continued violence, with reports indicating that Nigerian students are too scared to attend school, and businesses owned by Nigerians are being targeted for looting and harassment.

“The situation is worsening despite previous attempts at de-escalation,” said Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NIDCOM. “We are seeing children afraid to go to school and business owners fearing for their lives. This has gone on long enough.”

In its statement, NIDCOM rejected the generalization of Nigerians as criminals, emphasizing that crime knows no nationality. “We categorically reject profiling Nigerians based on the actions of a few individuals. Crime has no nationality,” the statement read.

NIDCOM called on the South African government to implement the following measures:

Enhanced Security: More police presence and patrols in areas heavily populated by Nigerians.
Accountability: The immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible for xenophobic violence and looting.
Dialogue: A community safety forum to include Nigerian diaspora leaders, South African officials, and police to address safety concerns.
Public Condemnation of Xenophobia: A clear stance from the South African government condemning xenophobic actions and warning against stereotyping Nigerians.

The Commission also urged Nigerians in South Africa to stay vigilant, law-abiding, and avoid high-risk areas, especially after dark.

“We remain in contact with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate in Johannesburg to ensure our citizens’ safety,” said Dabiri-Erewa.

NIDCOM concluded by acknowledging the majority of South Africans who continue to live peacefully with their African neighbors. However, it emphasized that the violence must end, and greater action is required to protect foreign nationals.