Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has strongly criticized South Africa for what she described as false claims about Nigerian migrants. Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Monday, Ojukwu rejected assertions that many Nigerians living in South Africa are illegal migrants, insisting that they are legitimate residents and business owners whose livelihoods have been destroyed by recent unrest.
"You are liars. Our citizens are in peril. They are in distress, so they cannot be said to be illegal migrants," she stated emphatically. The minister highlighted that Nigerian-owned shops have been looted and burned, and some Nigerian children have been prevented from attending school. "People who are doing legitimate business have their shops looted, they have their shops set on fire," she added.
The comments come amid fresh anti-foreigner protests in parts of Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Durban, where local groups have blamed migrants for unemployment, crime, and pressure on public services. Nigeria has consistently been among the countries most affected by periodic xenophobic violence in South Africa.
Historical Support and Disappointment
Ojukwu expressed deep disappointment over the treatment of Nigerians despite Nigeria's historical support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle. She cited Nigeria's financial contributions to the liberation movement, scholarships for South African students, and international advocacy against apartheid-era rule. The minister also noted that more than 120 South African companies operate in Nigeria, describing the country as one of their largest markets on the continent. "Why are they harassing Nigerians in South Africa?" she asked.
Diplomatic Response and Evacuation Plans
The latest unrest has prompted diplomatic action from Abuja. Nigeria has summoned South Africa's High Commissioner and is arranging voluntary repatriation for affected citizens. President Bola Tinubu has approved evacuation flights, with officials screening prospective returnees. More than 1,000 Nigerians have reportedly registered for evacuation.
Ojukwu warned that retaliatory measures against South African interests are not being ruled out, though any action would require approval from the Federal Government and the National Assembly. Meanwhile, South African authorities have largely framed the protests as being driven by concerns over undocumented immigration rather than xenophobia, while President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned violence against foreign nationals.
Strained Relations and Call for Calm
The renewed tensions threaten to strain relations between Africa's two largest economies despite their strong trade and investment ties. Nigerian police have warned against reprisal attacks on South African businesses operating in the country as diplomatic efforts continue.
