At least 130 Nigerians have registered for repatriation as the Federal Government arranges voluntary evacuation flights from South Africa following rising anti-foreigner tensions and confirmed deaths of two citizens.
The development comes amid renewed protests and xenophobic rhetoric in Pretoria and Johannesburg, where demonstrators have blamed undocumented migrants for economic hardship, unemployment and insecurity.
Government Moves to Protect Citizens
Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu announced on Sunday that President Bola Tinubu had prioritised citizen safety, with the ministry now collating details of Nigerians in South Africa for voluntary repatriation.
“So far, 130 applicants have duly registered for the exercise with our mission in South Africa, but this figure is expected to rise,” she said in a statement on X. Nigerian associations in South Africa are assisting the mission with the process.
The minister noted “heightened anxiety” over recent anti-foreigner protests. President Tinubu has expressed grave concern and called for more effective control by host security services.
Two Nigerians Killed
Odumegwu-Ojukwu confirmed two deaths in separate incidents involving security personnel. Amamiro Emmanuel died on 25 April from injuries allegedly sustained after being beaten by members of the South African National Defence Force in Port Elizabeth. Nnaemeka Andrew was also reported dead following an alleged encounter with the Tshwane Metro Police, with his body discovered at Pretoria Central Mortuary on 20 April.
“This is utterly condemnable and unacceptable,” the minister said. “Nigeria demands justice be done in these cases.”
Diplomatic Measures
Another demonstration is expected between 4 and 8 May, prompting President Tinubu to order close monitoring. Nigeria has summoned South Africa’s High Commissioner over the developments.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed Nigeria’s historic role in supporting South Africa’s liberation struggle, warning that Nigerian lives and businesses must not continue to be endangered. Both countries recently signed a memorandum of understanding on early warning mechanisms to protect their citizens.