Tensions Rise in South Africa, 130 Nigerians Seek Voluntary Return Home

Tensions Rise in South Africa, 130 Nigerians Seek Voluntary Return Home
Summons Envoy Over South Africa Protests
Calls for more effective control of the situation by relevant host security services

At least 130 Nigerians have registered for voluntary evacuation flights from South Africa as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to protect its citizens amid rising tensions linked to anti-foreigner protests.

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Eko Hot Blog reports that the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed this in a situation report shared on Sunday, noting that the evacuation plan forms part of broader diplomatic and security measures being coordinated with Nigerian missions in the country.

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According to her, the initiative follows directives from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has ordered heightened monitoring of developments and reinforced protection for Nigerians abroad.

“The President has reiterated that the priority at this time remains the safety of our citizens,” she said, adding that “arrangements are currently underway to collate details of Nigerians in South Africa for voluntary repatriation flights for those seeking assistance to return home.”

She confirmed that “so far, 130 applicants have duly registered for the exercise with our mission,” noting that the figure is expected to rise as more Nigerians indicate interest.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu also revealed that Nigeria has summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner, as diplomatic engagements continue to address the situation and ease growing tensions.

The development comes amid renewed anti-immigrant protests in cities including Pretoria and Johannesburg, which authorities say have heightened concerns over the safety of Nigerian nationals.

Tensions Rise in South Africa, 130 Nigerians Seek Voluntary Return Home — Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu

“There is heightened anxiety over the series of anti-foreigner protests, also targeted at Nigerians in select cities in the Republic of South Africa in recent weeks,” the minister said.

She added that the President had “expressed grave concern on the situation following a briefing, and has called for more effective control of the situation by relevant host security services.”

While acknowledging that South African authorities, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, have condemned violence, the minister said disturbing images circulating online have drawn widespread international concern.

“The images pervading both mainstream and social media depicting violence, carnage and targeted xenophobic killings of foreign nationals… have generated worldwide condemnation,” she stated.

According to her, protests held between April 27 and 29, 2026, were largely peaceful but required heavy police presence.

“The protests spearheaded by a local anti-migration movement in Pretoria and Johannesburg… witnessed a largely peaceful procession under the presence of heavily armed police who occasionally sprayed teargas to deter protesters from engaging in violent activity.

“There is no recorded killing of any Nigerian or destruction of Nigerian-owned properties during this particular protest,” she explained.

However, the minister confirmed two separate deaths involving Nigerians, both allegedly linked to encounters with security personnel.

“Amamiro Chidiebere Emmanuel died on 25 April 2026 as a result of injuries sustained from brutal beatings by military personnel of the South African National Defence Force on 20 April 2026 in Port Elizabeth,” she said.

She also disclosed that “Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew died following an alleged interaction with members of the Tshwane Metro Police, and his body was discovered at the Pretoria Central Mortuary.”

Describing both incidents as unacceptable, Odumegwu-Ojukwu stated: “This is utterly condemnable and unacceptable. The Nigerian High Commission is closely following investigations into these unfortunate incidents, and Nigeria demands justice be done in these cases.”

She further revealed that another wave of demonstrations is expected between May 4 and 8, 2026, prompting increased security and diplomatic coordination.

The minister emphasised that Nigerian missions are working closely with South African authorities to safeguard citizens, while evacuation preparations continue.

“Nigerian lives and businesses in South Africa must not continue to be put at risk,” she said, adding that both countries are engaging through existing frameworks, including an early warning mechanism, to prevent further escalation.