Daily Trust Editorial, Wednesday April 8, 2026
Tension has once again flared in South Africa, with Nigerians bearing the brunt of a fresh wave of xenophobic attacks. The latest unrest in the Eastern Cape, particularly in East London and surrounding areas such as Albany and Buffalo under KuGompo, is deeply troubling, not only for what it reveals about persistent antiforeigner sentiment, but also for the dangerous ease with which grievances can spiral into violence.
Reports indicate that the crisis was triggered by outrage over the reported installation of a Nigerian national, Solomon Eziko, as Igwe Ndigbo (leader of the Igbo community) in the area. The move, said to have taken place in early March, was interpreted by some locals as an attempt to create a parallel traditional authority structure, an issue that understandably touches on the sensitivities of South Africa’s cultural and governance systems.
However, whatever concerns the development may have raised, the violent turn it has taken is indefensible. Protests that began as expressions of discontent quickly degenerated into mob action, leaving at least 26 Nigerians injured and hospitalised, while properties worth millions of rands, including shops and vehicles, were looted or destroyed.
The picketing of the Nigerian High Commission on March 31, and the rhetoric deployed by some protest organisers, have further inflamed tensions, painting Nigerians broadly as criminals. This sweeping and dangerous narrative must not be allowed to take root.
It is unfortunate that the incident at the centre of this crisis was one that could and should have been avoided. Nigerians living abroad must recognise the importance of cultural sensitivity. While community organisation and welfare structures are legitimate, they must be pursued with due regard for the traditions and laws of host countries. Efforts that are perceived, rightly or wrongly, as attempts to impose foreign systems or authority can provoke backlash, particularly in societies already grappling with economic and social pressures.
There is also a need for restraint in how such initiatives are conducted. Elevating what ought to be internal community arrangements into high-profile events risks misinterpretation and unnecessary tension. Nigerians in the diaspora must act with decorum, mindful that their primary objective in relocating is to secure better opportunities for themselves and their families. Actions that jeopardise that objective, or expose fellow nationals to danger, must be avoided.
That said, it is our considered view that none of these considerations justifies violence. The responsibility for maintaining law and order rests squarely with the South African authorities. The government must rise to the occasion by ensuring the protection of all residents, including foreigners, and by holding accountable those who engage in criminal acts under the guise of protest. South Africans, too, must resist the temptation to take the law into their own hands. Civility and respect for the rule of law are essential in a democratic society.
Without doubt, this situation has assumed a diplomatic dimension. It is, therefore, imperative for the South African government to act decisively, not only to restore calm but also to address the underlying narratives that fuel xenophobia. The persistent portrayal of Nigerians as responsible for various social ills is both unfair and dangerous. It exposes law-abiding individuals to harm and undermines social cohesion.
The stakes are high. South Africa has a troubling history of xenophobic violence, and failure to act promptly risks a repeat of past tragedies. The international community will be watching closely, and the country’s reputation as a regional leader could suffer further damage if these incidents are not effectively contained.
There is also a moral dimension that cannot be ignored. Nigerians recall the role their country played during South Africa’s struggle against apartheid, offering support at significant cost. While history should not be used as a bargaining chip, it does provide a reminder of shared African solidarity, one that ought to be reflected in present-day relations.
Equally concerning is the seemingly muted response from the Nigerian government. At a time when its citizens abroad are under threat, a more proactive and visible engagement is expected. Questions are already being raised about whether the absence of fully deployed ambassadors and high commissioners is affecting Nigeria’s diplomatic responsiveness. Protecting citizens, wherever they may be, is a fundamental duty of any government and must be treated as such.
It is, therefore, our view, at Daily Trust, that this crisis ultimately calls for responsibility on all sides. Nigerians in South Africa must conduct themselves with sensitivity and restraint, while South African authorities must enforce the law without bias and protect all who reside within their borders.
Above all, the cycle of suspicion, stereotyping, and violence must be broken. Anything less would be a disservice not only to Nigerians in South Africa, but to the ideals of unity and mutual respect that should define relations across the African continent.
The Nigeria-South Africa Bi-national Commission needs to wake up and address this and other issues that put the countries’ relationship under undue strain.