Fani-Kayode Rejects Blanket Criminalisation of Nigerians in South Africa

I condemn the growing hostility and blanket criminalisation of Nigerians and other African migrants in South Africa. While criminals should be dealt with firmly under the law, it is false and unfair to portray all Nigerians as undocumented migrants, drug dealers or criminals. I argue that available prison figures, recent drug investigations and corruption allegations show that crime is not the preserve of any nationality. Many Nigerians in South Africa are documented professionals, entrepreneurs, workers and family members who contribute legally to the country. South Africa's challenge is primarily poverty, inequality and weak wealth distribution, not a migration crisis. Foreign nationals should not be used as scapegoats for these failures or subjected to Afrophobia and violence. I call for responsible diplomacy, lawful enforcement and mutual respect between Nigeria and South Africa. Both countries must reject divisive forces and strengthen their historic Pan-African relationship.

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