Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Nigerian government has warned South Africa against attacks on its citizens as anti-migrant protests spread across parts of the country, insisting that authorities must protect Nigerians and prevent a repeat of previous xenophobic violence.
The protests, organised by anti-migration groups including March and March, began on Tuesday following an unofficial June 30 deadline issued to undocumented migrants to leave South Africa.
Although organisers have maintained that the demonstrations are targeted at undocumented migrants and intended to remain peaceful, reports of harassment against lawful foreign residents have raised concerns among affected communities.
Reacting to the development, the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Foreign Affairs, Ademola Oshodi, said Nigeria had already communicated its concerns to South African authorities.
“The warning is simple: Nigeria expects action. Investigate every reported attack, protect Nigerian communities, restrain vigilante groups, prosecute wrongdoing, and activate the Nigeria–South Africa Early Warning Mechanism without further delay,” Oshodi said.
He stressed that while South Africa retains the right to enforce its immigration laws, such responsibilities belong to state institutions rather than vigilante groups.
“South Africa has every right to enforce its immigration laws. But that responsibility belongs to the state, through lawful institutions, not to mobs, vigilante groups, or political movements targeting foreign nationals,” he said.
“No African should be attacked, threatened, denied healthcare, pushed out of business, or humiliated because of where they come from.”
Oshodi also referenced Nigeria’s historic support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle, saying both countries should uphold mutual respect and safeguard each other’s citizens.
Meanwhile, March and March leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma denied allegations that the group was promoting violence.
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