Xenophobic Attack: NANS Threatens To Picket South African Businesses In Nigeria

The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D, has threatened to picket South African business interests over xenophobic attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa.

The student body expressed concerns over the renewed wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which has claimed the lives of innocent Nigerians.

NANS’ Southwest (Zone D) leader, Comrade Adeyemo Kayode, in a statement yesterday, said the “killing is not just an isolated tragedy; it is a painful reminder of a recurring pattern of hostility and violence against our people.

“We categorically state that the continued targeting of Nigerians under any guise is unacceptable and must come to an immediate end.

“NANS Southwest is mobilising to take decisive and lawful action by organising peaceful picketing and mass advocacy against South African business interests operating in Nigeria, including major corporations such as MTN Group and MultiChoice Group.

“It is morally indefensible for businesses to thrive in an environment where the lives of Nigerians are protected, while Nigerians are subjected to fear and violence elsewhere. This contradiction will no longer be tolerated”, it said.

NANS called on the South African government and relevant authorities to urgently demonstrate a genuine commitment to protecting foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians, and to ensure that justice is served in all reported cases of violence.

“Silence, delayed responses, or symbolic gestures will not suffice. The safety, dignity, and rights of Nigerians must be guaranteed, not negotiated.

“NANS Southwest remains open to dialogue and constructive engagement with South African business representatives, diplomatic channels, and international stakeholders toward resolving this crisis.

“However, we make it clear that Nigerian students will not stand idly by while the lives of their compatriots are endangered. This is a moment for accountability, responsibility, and decisive action”, the students said.