Nigerian Community Leader in S.A Urges Action Over June 30 Threat
A Nigerian community leader in South Africa has urged the Federal Government to take preventive measures ahead of a June 30 deadline announced by anti-immigration activists.
Mr Ekos Akpokabayen, Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Nigeria Union South Africa (NUSA), made the call in a statement issued in Johannesburg.
Akpokabayen said the Nigerian government should engage proactively with South African authorities over activities linked to the planned June 30 action.
He noted that the deadline was not issued by the South African government but by anti-foreign immigration groups.
According to him, developments surrounding the deadline could trigger tensions and possible attacks against foreign nationals.
“It is always better to prevent such situations before they escalate because the consequences may be severe,” he said.
Akpokabayen warned that criminal elements could exploit the situation to loot and destroy businesses owned by foreigners.
He urged the Nigerian Mission in South Africa to closely monitor developments and maintain regular engagement with Nigerian community leaders.
According to him, sustained dialogue will help keep Nigerians informed about developments and measures being taken to ensure their safety.
The NUSA leader also advised Nigerians living in South Africa to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding.
He urged community members to support one another and avoid actions capable of worsening tensions.
Akpokabayen expressed confidence that proactive engagement by both governments would help prevent any breakdown of law and order.
He said such efforts would protect the lives and property of all residents, irrespective of nationality.
Background
South Africa has witnessed several waves of xenophobic violence over the past two decades, with foreign nationals often targeted over allegations that they take jobs, engage in crime and place pressure on public services.
Nigerians have frequently been among those affected by the attacks, alongside migrants from Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Malawi, Somalia and other African countries.
Major outbreaks of xenophobic violence occurred in 2008, 2015 and 2019, resulting in deaths, injuries and the destruction of businesses owned by foreign nationals.
The 2019 attacks particularly affected Nigerians, prompting diplomatic tensions between Nigeria and South Africa.
In response, the Federal Government of Nigeria organised the voluntary evacuation of hundreds of Nigerians willing to return home from South Africa.
The evacuation was coordinated through the Nigerian High Commission and relevant government agencies.
Following the attacks, both countries established diplomatic mechanisms aimed at strengthening relations and addressing concerns affecting their citizens.
Nigeria and South Africa subsequently launched initiatives to improve cooperation on migration, security and consular matters.
Recent anti-immigration campaigns by some groups in South Africa have renewed concerns among migrant communities over their safety and security.
Although the June 30 deadline is not an official government directive, community leaders fear it could heighten tensions and expose foreign nationals to possible attacks or intimidation.
