Shettima Warns South Africa Over Treatment of Nigerians, Demands End to Harassment

Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on the South African authorities to take stronger action against the harassment, humiliation and alleged xenophobic attacks faced by Nigerians and other African nationals in the country.

Shettima said Nigeria would no longer remain silent when its citizens are subjected to what he described as unacceptable treatment in South Africa.

The Vice President made the position known while reacting to concerns over recurring incidents involving Nigerians and other foreign nationals living or doing business in South Africa.

He said the issue goes beyond relations between two countries, stressing that Africans should be able to live and work across the continent without being treated as outsiders or enemies.

Shettima urged South African authorities to protect the lives and dignity of Nigerians while enforcing the country’s immigration laws.

He also distinguished between legitimate immigration enforcement and the humiliation or mistreatment of people simply because they are foreigners.

According to the Vice President, Nigeria wants to maintain strong relations with South Africa and does not intend to create unnecessary tension between the two countries.

However, he made it clear that friendly relations should not prevent Nigeria from speaking out when its citizens are subjected to treatment considered unacceptable.

The Federal Government’s position comes amid renewed concerns over xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other Africans in South Africa.

Shettima also called for stronger dialogue between both countries to address the problems before they escalate into wider diplomatic or social tensions.

He said Nigeria believes in having serious and constructive discussions with South Africa rather than allowing disagreements to damage the relationship between the two countries.

The Vice President’s comments also highlight the long-standing role Nigerians have played in South Africa’s economy and society, with Nigerians involved in business, professional services, education and other areas.

At the same time, Nigerian authorities have continued to stress the need for Nigerians living abroad to respect the laws of their host countries.

The Federal Government’s message is therefore centred on mutual respect — Nigerians must obey the laws of countries where they live, while those countries must also protect Nigerians from abuse and discrimination.

Shettima’s warning comes as Nigeria seeks to strengthen its relationship with South Africa while pushing for better protection of Nigerians living and working there.

The Vice President said Nigeria remains open to dialogue, but expects South Africa to take the concerns raised seriously and ensure that Nigerian citizens are treated with dignity.

The latest statement could further place the treatment of Nigerians in South Africa at the centre of discussions between the two countries as both sides work to prevent recurring xenophobic incidents.

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