Nigerian Embassy Packed, 269 Flee SA As Protest Rises

Nigerian Embassy Packed, 269 Flee SA As Protest Rises

Fresh anti-immigrant protests in South Africa have forced more Nigerians to seek safety as the Federal Government continues evacuation efforts.

On Tuesday, another 269 Nigerians arrived in Lagos from Johannesburg aboard an Air Peace flight after fears grew over rising hostility and attacks.

The fresh concerns followed reports of the killing of a Nigerian businessman in Mpumalanga and demonstrations in several South African cities demanding the removal of undocumented migrants.

Although police said most protests were peaceful, cases of looting, assaults and property damage were also reported.

Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said evacuation flights would continue for citizens who volunteered to return home.

Officials assured Nigerians still living in South Africa that diplomatic talks with the South African government remain active to protect their lives and property while more return flights are being arranged.

Nigerian officials and community leaders also appealed for calm, saying hundreds of citizens are still awaiting evacuation.

They urged South African authorities to stop attacks on foreign nationals and ensure justice in cases involving Nigerians, while calling for stronger cooperation to prevent another wave of xenophobic violence.