The recent resurgence of xenophobic attacks against fellow Africans in South Africa is deeply disturbing, painful, and unacceptable. The killing, assault, intimidation, and displacement of African migrants, coupled with the looting and takeover of their businesses, represent a tragic betrayal of the very ideals upon which modern South Africa was built.
History should never be forgotten. It should guide the present and shape the future.
Many of those participating in these attacks were either not yet born or were too young to understand the enormous sacrifices made by other African nations, particularly Nigeria, during the struggle against apartheid. For decades, Nigeria stood firmly with the oppressed people of South Africa. The country provided financial assistance, diplomatic support, scholarships, humanitarian aid, and unwavering political pressure against the apartheid regime. Millions of ordinary Nigerians contributed to the South African Relief Fund, believing that the freedom of South Africans was a collective African responsibility.
It is well documented that Nelson Mandela visited Nigeria in the early years of the liberation struggle, and after his release from prison, he openly acknowledged Nigeria’s immense contribution to the anti-apartheid movement. Nigeria was widely regarded as one of the frontline supporters of South Africa’s liberation, despite having its own economic and developmental challenges.
It is therefore heartbreaking that citizens of the very nation whose freedom was championed across Africa now turn against fellow Africans seeking legitimate livelihoods. The African philosophy of Ubuntu—”I am because we are”—cannot coexist with violence, hatred, and xenophobia.
Every sovereign nation has the unquestionable right to regulate immigration, protect its borders, and enforce its laws. However, no country has the moral or legal right to permit mob violence, murder, arson, or the forceful seizure of businesses belonging to foreign nationals. Criminality must never be disguised as patriotism.
South Africa must ask itself an important question: Can any modern nation survive in isolation? Its economy, industries, universities, healthcare system, mining sector, commerce, and tourism all depend, in varying degrees, on regional cooperation and the contributions of people from across Africa and the wider world. Prosperity cannot flourish where fear replaces trust.
The Government of South Africa should act decisively by arresting and prosecuting perpetrators of xenophobic violence, compensating victims where appropriate, protecting all lawful residents irrespective of nationality, and launching sustained public education programmes that remind younger generations of Africa’s shared history and collective sacrifices.
What Should the Government of Nigeria Do Immediately?
Nigeria must respond firmly but responsibly, placing the safety and dignity of its citizens above all else.
The Federal Government should immediately:
– Summon the South African High Commissioner to demand a comprehensive explanation and concrete assurances for the protection of Nigerians and other African nationals.
– Demand a transparent investigation into every reported attack, with swift prosecution of all perpetrators.
– Activate emergency consular services to identify affected Nigerians, provide legal assistance, medical care, temporary shelter, and facilitate voluntary evacuation for those wishing to return home.
– Engage the African Union, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to ensure that xenophobic violence becomes a continental priority requiring coordinated action.
– Seek appropriate compensation for Nigerian citizens and businesses that have suffered unlawful destruction or seizure.
– Review bilateral agreements with South Africa to ensure reciprocity and adequate protection of citizens of both countries.
– Strengthen economic opportunities at home so that fewer Nigerians are compelled to migrate out of economic desperation.
– Work with South African authorities to establish an enduring Nigeria–South Africa Joint Commission on Migration, Business Protection, and Conflict Resolution to prevent future crises.
Nigeria’s response should be measured, lawful, and diplomatic. Retaliatory attacks against innocent South Africans living in Nigeria would only deepen the tragedy and undermine Africa’s commitment to peace and unity.
Africa’s future depends not on hatred but on cooperation. The continent cannot hope to compete globally if Africans become enemies of one another. Our diversity should be our greatest strength, not the basis for violence.
South Africa’s freedom was achieved through African solidarity. Preserving that freedom requires remembering the sacrifices of yesterday and embracing the unity needed for tomorrow.
Prof. Onabamiro is a Counselling Psychologist and a Public affairs Analyst
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