Nigeria-South Africa Tensions: A Call to Confront Xenophobia and Protect Africans

I reject the South African Presidency’s claim that Nigeria and Ghana are spreading fake news about xenophobic attacks. I argue that repeated violence against African migrants, including Nigerians, shows that Afrophobia remains a serious problem that must be acknowledged and addressed. I am concerned about reports of displaced African families, Nigerians seeking safety at the Nigerian High Commission, and alleged failures by security personnel to protect foreign nationals. I believe South Africa should offer clear assurances of protection and pursue respectful dialogue with Nigeria, Ghana and other African countries. I also oppose stereotyping all Nigerians in South Africa as criminals. While crime must be addressed wherever it occurs, I argue that collective blame fuels hostility and threatens bilateral relations, trade and Pan-African cooperation. This is Part 2 of the commentary.

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