XENOPHOBIA: South Africans Asking Nigerians To Leave SA

Johannesburg, South Africa – South Africa has seen recurring protests and incidents of xenophobia targeting foreign nationals, including Nigerians, driven by grievances over unemployment, crime, and competition for resources.

While there hasn’t been a widespread national protest specifically demanding Nigerians leave very recently, anti-immigrant sentiment remains a persistent issue.

Organizations such as “Operation Dudula” and “Put South Africans First” have gained prominence, advocating for the deportation of undocumented migrants and blaming foreigners for various socio-economic problems. These movements have organized marches and engaged in actions targeting foreign-owned businesses and individuals.

Historically, tensions between South Africans and Nigerians have sometimes escalated into violence, leading to diplomatic interventions and calls for protection of foreign nationals. The underlying causes are complex, rooted in economic disparities, perceptions of job displacement, and criminal activities, although officials often emphasize that not all crime is attributable to foreigners and that the attacks are unacceptable.

The South African government has condemned xenophobic violence, and efforts have been made to address the issue through various channels, including bilateral discussions with Nigeria. However, the sporadic nature of these incidents and the continued presence of anti-immigrant rhetoric indicate that the underlying issues contributing to xenophobia in South Africa are yet to be fully resolved.