Nigeria Summons South African Envoy Over Attacks on Nationals

Nigeria has summoned South Africa's acting high commissioner following reports of attacks on Nigerian nationals in South Africa. The foreign ministry stated that a meeting is scheduled for Monday to convey profound concern over these incidents, which could impact relations between the two countries.

The discussion will cover recent marches by anti-immigrant groups and instances of mistreatment of Nigerian citizens and their businesses. At least two Nigerians and four Ethiopians have been killed in recent weeks, according to local media reports.

Attacks have also targeted citizens of other African countries. South Africa, as the continent's most industrialized nation, attracts workers from across Africa.

Ramaphosa has condemned the attacks. In his Freedom Day address last week, marking the 1994 democratic elections, he reminded South Africans of support from other African nations during the anti-apartheid struggle. He also urged foreigners to respect local laws.

Some South Africans have accused foreigners of residing illegally, taking local jobs, and involvement in crimes such as drug trafficking. Anti-immigrant groups have stopped individuals outside hospitals and schools to demand identity papers.

During a march in Pretoria last week, foreign-owned businesses were advised to close due to potential violence. A Nigerian man told BBC Pidgin that the situation was unacceptable among fellow Africans seeking survival. A security guard, unable to work due to the protest, expressed fear and disappointment as an African in the continent.

“It's not what we expected as fellow Africans. It's just making us scared - imagine if we're scared in our own African continent - what if we go to Europe?”

Last month, Ghana summoned South Africa's top envoy after a video showed a Ghanaian man challenged on his immigration papers. Anti-immigrant sentiment increased earlier this year following reports of a Nigerian community leader's installation in a traditional role in KuGompo, formerly East London, which some locals viewed as a power grab.

Official figures indicate South Africa hosts about 2.4 million migrants, comprising less than 4% of the population, with many more present unofficially. Most migrants come from neighboring countries like Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, with a smaller number from Nigeria.