Shettima Warns South Africa Over Attacks on Nigerians, Reminds Them of Anti-Apartheid Sacrifices

The Federal Government has issued a firm warning to South African authorities over the continued harassment and mistreatment of its nationals, declaring that Nigeria will no longer accept the dehumanisation of its citizens living in the country.

Vice President Kashim Shettima delivered the strong stance while addressing journalists in Luanda, Angola, shortly before departing for Abuja after representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 21st Extraordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU).

Rebuking the persistent pattern of xenophobic hostility directed at Nigerians and other African nationals, Shettima invoked a well-known African proverb, warning that “those whose palm kernels were cracked by benevolent spirits should learn to be humble.” He pointed out that Nigeria made immense financial, diplomatic, and human sacrifices to support the anti-apartheid movement and secure freedom for Southern Africa, making the present hostility and public humiliation of Nigerian citizens particularly distressing.

The Vice President made it clear that while Nigeria is committed to peaceful diplomacy and values its bilateral ties, silence is no longer an option when the safety and fundamental rights of its people are under threat. He explained that while the administration seeks to avoid unnecessary tension, it remains vital to make Nigeria’s position unequivocally clear that degrading treatment of its nationals will not be countenanced.

Addressing immigration enforcement, Shettima acknowledged South Africa’s sovereign right to apply its domestic migration laws but insisted that such measures must adhere strictly to international legal standards and the protection of basic human dignity.

The issue has already been escalated to the continental level, with Nigeria formally presenting its grievances over recurring xenophobic and Afrophobic violence to the African Union. The federal authorities called on the continental body to implement decisive mechanisms that protect migrant rights, foster unity, and end hostility against fellow Africans across member states.