Xenophobia: NIDCOM demands protection for Nigerians in South Africa

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has issued a fervent appeal to the South African government, urging immediate action to protect Nigerian
citizens and other black immigrants from escalating xenophobic attacks.

This plea follows a disturbing surge in violence, which has reportedly claimed the lives of at least two Nigerians and fostered an environment of fear among the diaspora community.

Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NIDCOM, expressed profound concern over the deteriorating situation, noting that earlier diplomatic engagements between both governments have failed to de-escalate tensions.

Recent reports indicate a grim reality on ground, with Nigerian pupils reportedly too scared to attend school and genuine business owners fearing for their safety amidst targeted attacks, looting, and harassment.

Community leaders have documented fresh incidents of violence, intimidation within the last 72 hours, painting picture of the widespread fear and insecurity.

Tragic incidents underscore the severity of the situation. Amaramiro Emmanuel died on April 20, 2026, from the injuries allegedly sustained after being beaten by personnel of the South African National Defence Force.
In another distressing event, Ekpenyong Andrew was apprehended on April 19, 2026, in Booysens, Pretoria, following an alleged altercation with the Tshwane Metro Police, with his body later discovered at the Pretoria Central
Mortuary.

These deaths are part of a broader pattern of hostility, which also saw an
Ethiopian national shot dead in a targeted killing in downtown Johannesburg, as captured by CCTV footage.

NIDCOM has unequivocally rejected the profiling and generalization of all Nigerians, asserting that crime has no nationality.
The commission emphasizes that any
individual, regardless of origin, who commits an offense should face the full penalty of South African law.

However, it firmly states that collective punishment and blanket labeling of an entire nationality are unacceptable and dangerous.

In response to the escalating crisis, NIDCOM has put forth several demands to the South African government:
• Immediate Security: Increased police presence and the patrols in flashpoint communities where Nigerians reside and conduct business.

• Accountability: Prompt arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in xenophobic attacks, arson, and extortion.

• Dialogue: Establishment of a joint Nigeria-South Africa community safety forum involving police, city officials, and diaspora leaders.
• Non-Discrimination: Clear public messaging from South African authorities condemning xenophobia and warning against stereotyping.

The Nigerian Federal Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, has also formally called on South Africa to ensure the protection of lives and property of Nigerians and other foreign nationals.

This appeal was made around the
time of South Africa’s Freedom Day, with Nigeria expressing confidence that the enduring partnership between both nations will contribute to peace and stability across the African continent.
NIDCOM has urged all Nigerians in South Africa to remain law-abiding and avoid high-risk areas after dark.

The commission is in direct contact with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria the Consulate in Johannesburg, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to monitor the
situation closely.

While acknowledging the peaceful coexistence of the majority of South
Africans with their African counterparts, NIDCOM calls for calm, restraint, and respect for human life, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to diplomatic efforts to ensure the safety, dignity, and rights of its citizens abroad.