‘South Africa Treated Us Like Animals’ – Nigerian Returnees Reveal Xenophobic Attacks

Hundreds of Nigerians recently evacuated from South Africa have shared distressing accounts of their experiences before returning home, describing a pattern of intimidation, attacks, harassment, and economic hardship that ultimately forced many to abandon their livelihoods.

The evacuees arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos aboard a government-supported evacuation flight. The operation followed renewed tensions and reported incidents of anti-immigration violence in parts of South Africa, which left many foreign nationals vulnerable.

The Federal Government had earlier indicated its readiness to assist Nigerians affected by the unrest and support those willing to return voluntarily.

Upon arrival, several returnees narrated painful experiences, alleging that they were frequently targeted due to their foreign status and lived in constant fear of attacks, robbery, and intimidation.

One of the returnees, Rafiu Wasiu, a mechanic, said the situation deteriorated to the point where many Nigerians had no choice but to flee for safety.

“I’m so happy right now. I’m glad to be returning home safely. They started the attacks alongside warnings that we should leave the country,” he said.

He further alleged that foreigners were often harassed in public spaces and exposed to violent robbery attempts.

“You can just see them on the street calling you. They will say, ‘Hey, come here, let me have your phone.’ If you resist, they bring out a knife and stab you. And the police will do nothing,” he claimed.

Wasiu also accused some law enforcement officers of exploiting migrants, alleging incidents of extortion during arrests.

“Two weeks ago, I was sitting with my friend when the police came. They picked him up and we had to pay 2,500 rand to secure his release,” he alleged.

Despite the traumatic experience, he said he was relieved to be back in Nigeria and ready to start over.

“I am not lazy and I am happy to be back in my country. I will look for a job and do it with peace of mind,” he added.

Another returnee, Milly Abuh, said she lost her business after authorities shut it down over documentation issues.

“The police came and closed down the business because I could not provide what they called proper documentation. When I tried to ask questions, they started beating me,” she alleged.

Similarly, Lara Jacob said her attempt to continue her legal stay and business operations in South Africa ended in frustration.

“I wasn’t staying illegally. I had my permit. But when I wanted to renew it, they refused. They told us to go home and fix our country,” she said.

She added that many foreigners lived under constant fear of threats and hostility.

“They always threatened that they would kill us all if we didn’t leave their country. The situation became like a place with no laws when it comes to foreigners,” she said.

Another returnee, Justine Okonkwo, said he was forced to leave behind part of his family after their business was shut down. He noted that survival became the priority over financial investments.

“We were selling clothes but the place where we do business was shut down. They claimed we were taking their jobs,” he said.

“I chose to secure my life first. I am not planning to go back there.”

The evacuation has once again drawn attention to recurring reports of xenophobic violence in South Africa, where foreign nationals have at various times faced hostility linked to economic pressure, unemployment, and social tensions.

Meanwhile, Nigerian authorities say screening and evacuation efforts are ongoing, with more citizens expected to be assisted in returning home in the coming days as part of the government’s response to the crisis.