Xenophobic attacks: Tension rises between Nigeria and South Africa amid property damage, seizures

Tensions between Nigeria and South Africa have escalated following allegations of systematic property damage and seizures during a by-law enforcement operation in Pretoria Central.

The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) has raised concerns over the incident, which occurred on January 17, 2025, during a joint operation by South African authorities.

The operation, part of the “Reclaim Our City” enforcement initiative, allegedly resulted in extensive seizure of commercial assets, including expensive hair extensions, electronics, and large sums of money.

According to a statement signed by NUSA’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Akindele Olunloyo, the incident occurred on January 17, 2025, during a joint operation conducted by various South African authorities as part of the “Reclaim Our City” enforcement initiative.

“The notification described alleged systematic property damage and seizures during the Reclaim Our City by-law enforcement action,” the statement read.

NUSA President Smart Nwobi has convened key executives meeting to investigate the matter, with the union’s Legal Adviser, Anthonia Ndubuisi, visiting the scene to collect firsthand accounts from affected business owners.

Persecondnews the incident comes barely a month after President Bola Tinubu and President Cyril Ramaphosa co-chaired the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town, South Africa.

The meeting aimed to address the often-troubled relationship between the two African giants.

Historically, Nigeria has played a significant role in supporting South Africa’s fight against apartheid and decolonization efforts in Southern Africa.

However, relations between the two countries have deteriorated in recent years, with xenophobic attacks against Nigerian migrants and retaliatory actions against South African businesses in Nigeria.

NUSA has filed a formal complaint with the SAPS Pretoria Central Station, and an investigation is underway.

As tensions continue to rise, there are calls for Presidents Tinubu and Ramaphosa to resume efforts to promote ties and harness Africa’s potentials, fostering healthy competition and cooperation for the common good of all Africans.