Nigeria Demands Justice As Xenophobic Tensions Flare In South Africa

When citizens begin to feel unsafe beyond their borders, diplomacy quickly turns urgent, and that is exactly the point Nigeria has reached with South Africa as Abuja has summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner, Lesoli Machele, over rising anti-foreigner protests and the deaths of two Nigerians in security custody.

Briefing the press on the outcome of the meeting, between the Permanent Secretary, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, and the Acting High Commissioner of South Africa to Nigeria, Lesoli Machele, the spokesperson of the Ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa, described the situation as deeply troubling, citing disturbing footage of violence and growing threats linked to groups like Operation Dudula.

At the heart of Nigeria’s protest are the deaths of Nnaemeka Ekpeyong and Kelvin Amaramiro, allegedly following assaults by security personnel.

Nigeria is demanding transparent investigations, autopsy reports, and accountability where wrongdoing is proven.

Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has also engaged her South African counterpart, signalling efforts to preserve ties while insisting on the safety and dignity of Nigerians abroad.

South Africa maintains it does not support the protests, but for many Nigerians, assurances will matter less than action.