Frustrated Nigerians living in South Africa have gathered at the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria to protest delays in the Federal Government’s voluntary repatriation programme, expressing concerns over uncertainty surrounding their return to Nigeria.
The protesters, many of whom had registered for government-assisted repatriation, said they were yet to receive clear information regarding when they would be evacuated despite previous assurances that arrangements were underway.
The demonstration comes amid heightened tensions in South Africa following recent anti-migrant protests and xenophobic incidents that have prompted hundreds of foreign nationals to seek a return to their home countries. Nigerians living in affected communities have increasingly expressed fears over their safety and future in the country.
Addressing the concerned citizens, Nigeria’s Acting High Commissioner to South Africa, Alexander Ajayi, acknowledged the frustrations of those awaiting evacuation and assured them that the repatriation programme remained active.
According to Ajayi, the process had been temporarily slowed by operational challenges, but the Nigerian government remained committed to assisting citizens who wished to return home.
He explained that plans for voluntary repatriation were still in place and urged those affected to remain patient while efforts continued to resolve the logistical issues delaying the next phase of the exercise.
Many of the protesters complained that they had not received concrete information about flight schedules and feared that the approaching June 30 deadline being publicised by anti-immigration groups could further worsen their situation.
The concerns arise as South African authorities increase security measures across the country following weeks of tensions linked to anti-migrant demonstrations. Although the groups behind the ultimatum have no legal authority to enforce their demands, the developments have heightened anxiety among migrant communities.
South African police have announced enhanced deployments nationwide ahead of the June 30 deadline set by fringe anti-illegal immigration groups.
“The South African Police Service has elevated its operational readiness across all provinces, with comprehensive deployment plans in place to protect communities, critical infrastructure and key public spaces,” Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said.
He also warned that while peaceful protests would be respected, authorities would not tolerate violence, intimidation, or acts capable of threatening public safety.
Defence Minister Angie Motshekga similarly stated that the military had been placed on standby to protect strategic installations, including airports, and to support law enforcement agencies if necessary.
South Africa has experienced recurring outbreaks of anti-foreigner violence over the years, often fuelled by allegations that migrants contribute to crime and unemployment. The country continues to grapple with unemployment levels above 30 percent, a situation that has periodically triggered hostility toward foreign nationals.
Major outbreaks of xenophobic violence in 2008, 2015, 2016, and 2019 resulted in dozens of deaths and widespread destruction of businesses owned by migrants. The latest tensions have revived concerns among foreign communities, including Nigerians, about their security and long-term prospects in the country.
The protest at the Nigerian High Commission comes weeks after Nigerian authorities confirmed that more than 1,000 citizens had indicated interest in voluntary repatriation following recent xenophobic incidents and anti-immigration protests. Government officials have maintained that efforts are ongoing to facilitate the safe return of those wishing to leave South Africa.
For many of the Nigerians gathered in Pretoria, the immediate concern remains obtaining certainty about when they will be able to return home, as fears over security and growing anti-migrant sentiment continue to dominate discussions within the community.
Nigerians Gather At High Commission In South Africa, Decry Repatriation Delays – YouTube
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