The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has called on the South African government to urgently ensure the safety of Nigerians and other black immigrants following reports of renewed xenophobic attacks in parts of the country.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, NiDCOM Chairman/CEO, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, expressed deep concern over what she described as worsening persecution, noting that expectations of a de-escalation after earlier diplomatic engagements have not been met.
“While many expected a de-escalation of tensions following earlier engagements between both governments, the situation on the ground is deteriorating,” she said.
According to the commission, reports indicate that pupils of Nigerian descent are increasingly afraid to attend school, while business owners have shut down operations due to fears of targeted attacks, looting, and harassment.
NiDCOM added that community leaders have documented fresh incidents of violence and intimidation within the past 72 hours.
The commission urged South African authorities to take immediate and visible steps to protect all foreign nationals, in line with international law and African Union protocols on human rights and free movement.
It also rejected what it described as the profiling and generalisation of Nigerians, stressing that criminal acts should be addressed on an individual basis.
“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,” Dabiri-Erewa stated, warning that collective punishment and blanket labelling are both unacceptable and dangerous.
NiDCOM outlined key measures it expects from authorities, including increased police presence in affected areas, swift arrest and prosecution of those responsible for xenophobic violence, and the creation of a joint Nigeria–South Africa community safety forum involving law enforcement agencies, city officials, and diaspora leaders.
The commission also called for clear public messaging from South African authorities condemning xenophobia and discouraging stereotyping.
While advising Nigerians in South Africa to remain law-abiding and avoid high-risk areas, especially at night, NiDCOM disclosed that it is maintaining close contact with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria, the Consulate in Johannesburg, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
It, however, commended the majority of South Africans who continue to coexist peacefully with other Africans, reaffirming the longstanding relationship between both countries.
“Nigeria will continue to work diplomatically with South Africa to ensure the safety, dignity, and rights of our citizens abroad,” the statement added.
Elijah Adeyemi
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