Johannesburg — A Nigerian community leader in South Africa has called on the Federal Government to take urgent preventive measures ahead of a June 30 deadline declared by anti-immigration activists, warning of potential threats to foreign nationals.
Mr. Ekos Akpokabayen, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Nigeria Union South Africa (NUSA), made the appeal in a statement issued in Johannesburg, urging Nigerian authorities to engage proactively with their South African counterparts.
He clarified that the June 30 deadline was not issued by the South African government but by anti-foreign immigration groups, noting that the situation could still escalate into violence.
Akpokabayen warned that developments surrounding the planned action could trigger tensions and expose foreign nationals, including Nigerians, to possible attacks.
“It is always better to prevent such situations before they escalate because the consequences may be severe,” he said.
He further cautioned that criminal elements might exploit the situation to loot and destroy businesses owned by foreigners, as seen in previous incidents.
The NUSA leader urged the Nigerian Mission in South Africa to intensify monitoring efforts and maintain close engagement with Nigerian community leaders to ensure timely information sharing and coordinated responses.
According to him, sustained dialogue would help keep Nigerians informed about evolving developments and safety measures.
He also advised Nigerians residing in South Africa to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, while encouraging community solidarity and restraint to avoid worsening tensions.
Akpokabayen expressed optimism that proactive engagement between Nigerian and South African authorities would help prevent any breakdown of law and order and safeguard lives and property.
Background
South Africa has experienced recurring waves of xenophobic violence over the past two decades, often targeting foreign nationals accused of taking jobs, engaging in crime, and straining public services.
Nigerians have frequently been among those affected, alongside migrants from Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Malawi, Somalia, and other African countries.
Major outbreaks occurred in 2008, 2015, and 2019, resulting in deaths, injuries, and widespread destruction of foreign-owned businesses.
The 2019 attacks, which significantly impacted Nigerians, led to diplomatic tensions between Nigeria and South Africa and prompted the evacuation of hundreds of Nigerians by the Federal Government.
The evacuation was coordinated through the Nigerian High Commission and relevant agencies.
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In the aftermath, both countries established diplomatic frameworks to strengthen bilateral relations and address migration, security, and consular concerns.
However, recent anti-immigration campaigns have renewed fears among migrant communities, with the June 30 deadline raising fresh concerns despite lacking official government backing.