By Omoyeni Ojeifo
Deeply concerned by the surging wave of Afrophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa, the Nigerian Government has warned that it may soon deploy tougher diplomatic measures.
Condemning the persistent violence, Abuja blasted South African authorities and police for allegedly turning a blind eye to the killings.
The government made it clear that the ongoing targeting of Nigerians living legally in the country will no longer be tolerated.
The Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs made the position known in a statement issued on Sunday through its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, a copy of which was obtained by Persecondnews.
The warning followed a series of attacks on Nigerians, including the killing of Emeka Charles Iroegbu, who died after he was allegedly tortured during interrogation by officers of the Tshwane Metro Police in Sunnyside, Pretoria, on June 28, and Musa Yunana Joe, who was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in Witbank, Mpumalanga, on the same day.
It also recalled the killing of Nnaemeka Mathew Andrew Ekpenyong on April 20, with no arrests made so far.
“The continuing pattern of such terrible incidents is clearly evidence of complicity on the part of security operatives, especially officers of the Tshwane Metro Police, which raises the question of state responsibility under International Law,” the statement said.
It insisted that the safety of Nigerians must be guaranteed, while noting that diplomatic channels were being explored to address the situation.
“South Africa has one of the highest crime rates globally, and foreigners should not be made scapegoats for the country’s socio-economic challenges,” it said.
The government also criticised remarks attributed to a South African government spokesperson asking Nigerians leaving the country due to xenophobic unrest to disclose where illegal drugs were hidden.
“Such derogatory, unprofessional and uncensored public statements by highly placed government officials constitute hate speech that influences and incites negative and criminal actions against members of the Nigerian community.”
It accused groups including March on March and Operation Dudula of promoting hostility against fellow Africans, warning that those inciting violence could face regional and international criminal liability.
The federal government stressed that South Africa has a duty to protect the lives and property of all legal residents, noting that South African citizens and businesses continue to operate in Nigeria without harassment.
It maintained that criminal allegations must be addressed through lawful judicial processes and not extra-judicial actions, while insisting on justice in all pending cases involving Nigerians.
“Our position remains that no matter what the allegations or suspicions may be, there are lawful processes and steps to justice. All must be presumed innocent and granted fair hearing in a court of law,” it said.
The Federal Government expressed sympathy to the families of the victims and urged Nigerians in South Africa to remain vigilant, obey local laws, avoid flashpoints and relocate to safer areas where necessary.
It warned that repeated targeting of Nigerians legally residing in South Africa remained unacceptable and reaffirmed its commitment to diplomatic engagement and African unity in addressing the situation.
The government urged Nigerians residing in South Africa to remain calm and avoid retaliatory actions against South African nationals or businesses.
It added that evacuation of registered Nigerians from South Africa is ongoing as part of continued efforts to ensure their safety and welfare.
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