98 Nigerians killed in South Africa since 2022 – FG

The Federal Government has called on South Africa to take firm action against repeated attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals, insisting that those responsible must be identified and prosecuted.

It also emphasised that every foreign resident is entitled to equal protection under international law, urging the South African authorities to strengthen measures against xenophobic violence.

The appeal was made on Monday in Abuja during talks between Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, and South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola.

Lamola was in Nigeria as the Special Envoy of President Cyril Ramaphosa, delivering a message to President Bola Tinubu that reaffirmed the longstanding ties between the two nations.

Speaking at the meeting, Enikanolaiye recalled Nigeria’s contribution to the anti-apartheid campaign, as well as its role in the establishment of the African Union and the New Partnership for Africa’s Development.

Despite the close relationship, he expressed concern over the continued attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, disclosing that 98 Nigerians had lost their lives in mob and hate-related incidents since 2022.

He said: “Nigerians have continued to be among the principal victims of what we describe as Afrophobia. We will never support drug trafficking or any criminal conduct.

“However, anyone accused of committing an offence must be prosecuted in accordance with South Africa’s Constitution, the rule of law and international human rights obligations.”

Enikanolaiye said the inability of authorities to adequately protect foreign nationals raised serious questions about public safety and the government’s responsibility to uphold justice.

He cautioned that continued Afrophobic attacks could undermine the strategic partnership and common aspirations shared by both countries.

In his response, Lamola described Nigeria as one of South Africa’s closest partners and said his visit was intended to reinforce the historic relationship established during the liberation struggle.

He expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s steadfast backing during the anti-apartheid movement, noting that South Africans remained grateful for the sacrifices made in support of their freedom.

Lamola stressed that his government opposed xenophobia and every form of discrimination against people living in South Africa.

He said: “President Ramaphosa has consistently spoken against xenophobia, racism, homophobia, violence and all forms of intolerance directed at anyone living within South Africa.”

He added that South Africa would continue to enforce its immigration laws and tackle crimes such as drug trafficking and cybercrime while remaining committed to the rule of law.

Lamola also said effective migration management required greater collaboration among African countries to promote safe, regular and orderly movement of people in line with African Union protocols.