The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has called on the South African government to take urgent steps to protect Nigerians and other African migrants following renewed reports of xenophobic attacks, harassment, and intimidation in parts of the country.
In a statement released on Wednesday, NiDCOM Chairman/CEO, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, expressed concern over the worsening situation, noting that tensions targeting black immigrants persist despite previous diplomatic engagements between Nigeria and South Africa.
“While many expected a de-escalation of tensions following earlier engagements between both governments, the situation on the ground is deteriorating,” she said.
The commission revealed that it had received distressing reports indicating that children of Nigerian descent are increasingly afraid to attend school, while some business owners have shut down operations due to fears of looting, harassment, and targeted violence. Community leaders have also reported fresh incidents of attacks within the past 72 hours.
NiDCOM urged South African authorities to act swiftly in safeguarding foreign nationals, stressing that such protection is mandated under international law and African Union protocols.
Rejecting the profiling of Nigerians, the commission emphasized that criminal acts should be treated on an individual basis and not used to stigmatise an entire nationality.
“Crime has no nationality. Any individual, regardless of origin, who commits an offence should be investigated and made to face the full penalty of South African law,” the statement read.
The commission warned against collective punishment and stereotyping, describing such actions as “dangerous and unacceptable.” It also called for increased security presence in affected communities, prosecution of perpetrators, and the creation of a joint Nigeria–South Africa community safety forum.
Additionally, NiDCOM urged South African authorities to publicly denounce xenophobia and promote messages of unity and non-discrimination.
Nigerians residing in South Africa were advised to remain law-abiding and avoid high-risk areas, particularly at night. The commission also confirmed ongoing collaboration with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria, the Consulate in Johannesburg, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
While acknowledging the peaceful coexistence shared with many South Africans, NiDCOM called for calm, restraint, and respect for human life, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to continued diplomatic engagement.
The latest concerns come amid renewed tensions linked to protests reportedly led by the anti-immigration group Operation Dudula, which has been accused of targeting African migrants and advocating for deportations.
The unrest has sparked diplomatic concerns following reported attacks on Nigerians and safety warnings issued to diaspora communities in cities such as Durban, Cape Town, and KwaZulu-Natal.
As the situation develops, NiDCOM insists that urgent and decisive action is needed to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety, dignity, and rights of Nigerians and other migrants in South Africa.
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