Anti-Immigration Protests Erupt in South Africa as Xenophobic Attacks Claim Two Nigerian Lives

Hundreds of protesters gathered in Pretoria, South Africa’s administrative capital, on Tuesday as anti-immigration groups intensified calls for undocumented migrants to leave the country amid growing tensions over unemployment, crime, and economic hardship.

The demonstration, led by the March and March movement alongside several civil society organisations, saw protesters march to the Union Buildings — the official seat of government — demanding stricter immigration enforcement and the deportation of undocumented foreigners.

Carrying placards and sticks, demonstrators accused the South African government of neglecting citizens while allowing illegal migration to worsen social and economic pressures.

Some banners displayed messages such as: “March and March until we win. If fighting for my country means I am xenophobic, then I’m proudly xenophobic.”

The protests come amid renewed xenophobic violence across parts of South Africa, including attacks that reportedly led to the deaths of two Nigerian nationals.

Businesses around parts of Pretoria shut their doors during the march amid fears the protest could escalate into violence.

Protesters Blame Migration for Economic Struggles

Several protesters told local media that illegal migration had become a major source of frustration for many South Africans struggling with unemployment and limited resources.

Others argued that government officials were prioritising migrants over local citizens, while insisting that undocumented foreigners should return to their home countries.

The demonstration reflects growing anti-foreigner sentiments that have periodically erupted in South Africa over the years, often leading to violent attacks on African migrants and foreign-owned businesses.

Nigerians Reportedly Killed During Attacks

The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) confirmed the deaths of two Nigerians — identified as Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramuiro and Ekpenyong Andrew — during recent anti-foreigner unrest.

According to NUSA Chairman Olaniyi Abodedele, Andrew reportedly died after being arrested in Pretoria West on April 19 under unclear circumstances. He alleged that the victim was beaten and later dumped at a hospital.

Abodedele also claimed that Amaramuiro was assaulted by police and military officers during a raid on his residence on April 20. Although he was later granted bail, he reportedly developed internal bleeding and died days later after seeking medical treatment.

South African security agencies are yet to officially respond to the allegations.

The killings have heightened fears among African migrants living in the country, with many reporting increased harassment and insecurity.

Migrants Living in Fear

Speaking to the BBC, Nigerian security worker Chukwudi Ajoku rejected accusations that foreign nationals were responsible for crime and drug trafficking in South Africa.

“What is happening is not good. We are now afraid in our own African continent,” he said, adding that not all foreigners engage in criminal activities.

Ajoku urged authorities to target actual criminals rather than generalising migrants.

Ramaphosa Condemns Xenophobic Violence

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned recent xenophobic attacks during the country’s Freedom Day celebration on April 27.

Ramaphosa acknowledged concerns about corruption within South Africa’s immigration system and pledged that his administration would tackle illegal migration while enforcing labour laws against businesses employing undocumented workers.

However, he warned citizens against taking the law into their own hands or allowing frustrations over migration to fuel hatred against fellow Africans.

The United Nations Secretary-General also condemned reports of xenophobic attacks and intimidation against migrants in parts of South Africa, stressing that violence and vigilantism have no place in democratic societies governed by the rule of law.

Ghana and Nigeria Issue Safety Advisories

The Ghana High Commission in South Africa issued an advisory urging Ghanaian citizens to remain vigilant, avoid protest areas, and temporarily close businesses where necessary.

Community leaders also advised migrants to maintain a low profile, avoid inflammatory social media activity, and stay away from large gatherings.

Similarly, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) warned Nigerians in South Africa to avoid confrontation, stay away from protest hotspots, and closely monitor local developments.

NiDCOM Chairperson Abike Dabiri-Erewa called on the African Union to intervene over the renewed attacks on African migrants in South Africa.

Longstanding Tensions Over Immigration

South Africa remains home to an estimated 2.4 million migrants, according to official figures, although analysts believe the actual number may be higher.

Many migrants come from neighbouring African countries such as Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Lesotho, while others arrive from Nigeria and elsewhere in search of economic opportunities.

The country continues to battle high unemployment, widening inequality, and pressure on public services — factors that have frequently fuelled anti-immigrant sentiments.

Groups such as Operation Dudula and March and March have repeatedly organised demonstrations accusing migrants of contributing to unemployment, drug abuse, and crime.

These tensions have, over the years, triggered deadly attacks on foreign nationals and foreign-owned businesses across several South African cities. ; by Kwame Luthando Mensah