Nigeria has indicated that it may consider retaliatory diplomatic and policy measures against South Africa amid renewed concerns over xenophobic violence targeting Nigerians and other foreign nationals. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made the remarks while addressing journalists in Abuja, signalling growing frustration within the Nigerian government over what it describes as an inadequate response from South African authorities.
According to the minister, the administration of President Bola Tinubu is reviewing a range of options in response to what she characterised as persistent violence and a lack of effective protection for Nigerian citizens living in South Africa. While she stressed that any decision would ultimately be taken at the highest levels of government and involve legislative input, she noted that “retaliatory measures are not off the table.”
The latest tensions follow reports of renewed xenophobic attacks in several parts of South Africa, which have resulted in casualties, including the deaths of two Nigerians identified as Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew. Reports from the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg also allege that some victims were attacked and beaten during incidents involving members of the South African National Defence Force in Port Elizabeth, raising further diplomatic concern.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasised that Nigerians living in South Africa continue to face violence, discrimination, and destruction of property despite what she described as longstanding contributions by Nigeria to South Africa’s liberation struggle during the apartheid era. She referenced Nigeria’s historical support through financial, diplomatic, military, and humanitarian assistance, suggesting that such sacrifices should inform the current handling of bilateral relations.
She also rejected claims by South African authorities that violence is only directed at undocumented migrants. According to her, many affected Nigerians are legal residents who have been targeted in attacks that include looting of businesses, destruction of property, and physical assaults.
“That is absolutely untrue,” she said, disputing the assertion that only illegal immigrants are affected. She added that “citizens are being harassed, their properties are being looted, and criminal acts are being perpetrated against them,” underscoring the scale of the concern raised by Nigerian authorities.
The minister’s comments come amid warnings from Nigerian security agencies advising citizens against retaliatory attacks on South African businesses or interests within Nigeria, in an effort to prevent escalation of tensions.
Meanwhile, the federal government is also preparing a large-scale evacuation of Nigerians affected by the violence. Around 1,000 citizens are expected to be repatriated, with the government planning to deploy aircraft to facilitate their return following ongoing verification exercises. The operation, initially scheduled earlier in the week, was delayed due to logistical issues but is now expected to proceed shortly, with the state covering transportation costs.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu reaffirmed that preparations are underway and assured that Nigerians affected by the unrest will be given the opportunity to return home safely as diplomatic efforts continue.
