By Ameh Gabriel | Media360Impact News
The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed deep concern over the recurring cases of extrajudicial killings and attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa, calling for swift justice and stronger protection mechanisms for its citizens.
The Nigerian government made its position known during the Nigeria–South Africa Political Consultations held in Abuja on Tuesday, co-chaired by Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, and Anna Moraka, South Africa’s Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO).
Odumegwu-Ojukwu lamented the persistent violence and discrimination against Nigerians despite the long-standing friendship and shared liberation history between the two nations. She cited the activities of ‘Operation Dudula,’ a South African anti-immigrant group reportedly responsible for recent assaults on Nigerians and other foreign nationals, as deeply troubling.
“We cannot ignore the recurring reports of extrajudicial killings and the continued delay in the administration of justice for deceased Nigerians,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu said. “These incidents cast a shadow over the longstanding bond between our peoples and undermine the spirit of African solidarity that binds our two nations.”
She stressed that Nigeria expects greater accountability and decisive action from South African authorities to ensure justice for victims and the safety of all Nigerians living and doing business in the country.
In her response, South Africa’s Deputy Minister Anna Moraka acknowledged Nigeria’s concerns as “valid and important,” assuring that her government does not condone any form of violence or discrimination against foreign nationals.
“The position championed by the group called Dudula Dudula is not that of the South African government,” she said. “Under the leadership of President Cyril Ramaphosa, we are intensifying efforts to safeguard foreign nationals, including Nigerians, through legitimate and lawful means. South Africa remains a welcoming and hospitable nation.”
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in key sectors including trade, investment, mining, energy, defense, technology, and security. They also jointly called for reforms in global governance institutions, such as the United Nations Security Council, to give Africa a stronger voice in international affairs.
The consultations reviewed progress made since the 11th Session of the Nigeria–South Africa Binational Commission (BNC) held in Cape Town in 2024 and culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Early Warning Mechanism.
The MoU aims to enhance communication, promote rapid response to emerging issues, and prevent future diplomatic misunderstandings between both countries.
