A recent rise in anti-immigrant sentiment across South Africa has sparked renewed tension, with some citizens calling for the removal of foreign nationals from other African countries.
The protests are largely driven by claims that migrants are taking jobs meant for local citizens.
Another argument frequently raised is that foreign nationals are contributing to rising crime levels, a perception that has further fuelled public anger.
These narratives have, in some cases, escalated into violence against migrants, creating an increasingly unsafe environment that has prompted many to consider leaving the country.
Reports indicate that Nigeria is making arrangements to repatriate its citizens living in South Africa who choose to return voluntarily, as concerns mount over repeated xenophobic attacks.
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said on Sunday that around 130 Nigerians have already signed up for the voluntary return programme, with numbers expected to rise.
“Nigerian lives and businesses must not continue to be put at risk,” the minister said.
Analysts warn that continued violence against Nigerians in South Africa could strain relations between both countries, deepening existing tensions between their populations.
While evacuation plans are being prepared for those who wish to leave, Nigerian authorities are also demanding accountability and closure over lives lost during recent incidents, according to Reuters.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, stated that Nigeria is calling for full cooperation in providing autopsy results, post-mortem reports, and all relevant case files, as well as access to legal processes for affected families.
Last week, protests in Johannesburg and Pretoria saw demonstrators calling for stricter enforcement against undocumented migration, arguing that irregular foreigners are placing pressure on jobs, public services, and security systems.
Migrant advocacy groups, however, argue that foreign nationals are often unfairly blamed for South Africa’s economic and social challenges.
The demonstrations reportedly turned violent, resulting in the deaths of two Nigerian citizens who were allegedly attacked by security personnel.