African Countries Protest Alleged Xenophobic Violence Against Their Citizens in South Africa

Nigeria's foreign minister called her South African counterpart on Monday to address accusations of xenophobic violence against Nigerians, including the deaths of two individuals. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwe discussed the issues with Ronald Lamola, as AllAfrica reported, highlighting a surge in attacks that has prompted diplomatic action from multiple African nations.

The Nigerian government has claimed that two of its nationals were killed by South African security forces.

At the weekend, Odumegwu-Ojukwe announced that Nigeria was planning a special evacuation flight from South Africa for citizens wishing to flee the country. This move followed reports of escalating incidents, with the number of xenophobic attacks in South Africa on the rise.

The announcement underscored the growing tensions, as Nigeria also called in the South African acting High Commissioner for a meeting on Monday to discuss the mistreatment.

Ghana has formally complained to Pretoria about the alleged mistreatment of its citizens, joining Nigeria in raising the issue with the South African government. This formal protest came amid the broader wave of concerns from African countries. AllAfrica reported that the rising tide of xenophobia is embarrassing South Africa as these diplomatic complaints mount.

Mozambique is expected to complain to Pretoria about the alleged mistreatment of its citizens, becoming the latest nation to address the issue. Mozambican President Daniel Chapo was expected to meet with President Ramaphosa in Pretoria on Tuesday, according to Maputo sources.

This meeting follows similar actions by Nigeria and Ghana, with two Nigerians reported dead in the xenophobic violence, according to the Nigerian government.

The Nigerian foreign ministry's actions on Monday built on the weekend announcement, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. Nigeria has raised the issue of mistreatment with the South African government, claiming specific incidents involving security forces. Ghana's formal complaint to Pretoria echoes these concerns, as the number of attacks continues to climb.

Diplomatic channels have activated across the region, with Odumegwu-Ojukwe's call to Lamola marking a direct high-level intervention. The planned evacuation flight aims to provide an exit for affected Nigerians, amid reports of deaths and violence. Mozambique's anticipated protest during the presidential meeting adds to the pressure on South Africa to address the allegations.