Nigeria says it is gathering information on citizens who recently returned from South Africa after anti-migrant protests forced hundreds of foreigners to leave, with plans to seek compensation for businesses and property allegedly lost during the unrest. The Nigerian government said verified claims will be presented for discussion with South African authorities at the highest level once the extent of the losses has been established. The move follows weeks of xenophobic demonstrations in South Africa, where foreign nationals have reported intimidation, attacks and pressure to leave the country. The unrest has led to the return of Nigerians and citizens from several other African countries.
South Africa’s Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi said more than 50,000 foreign nationals have so far been processed for deportation or repatriation as part of the government’s migration enforcement campaign. However, South African officials have rejected calls for compensation. Presidency Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said Pretoria would not compensate migrants for losses linked to illegal settlements or businesses operating outside legal requirements. “You are already violating the law if you are going to be telling us about a shack or informal settlement,” she said, according to local broadcaster eNCA.
Tens of thousands of migrants have left South Africa since anti-immigration protests intensified in June, with many returning to Zimbabwe, Malawi, Mozambique and Uganda. Nigeria’s push for compensation adds another layer of diplomatic tension between African neighbours, as governments call for the protection of citizens abroad while South Africa faces growing pressure to address xenophobic violence and irregular migration concerns.
