A Nigerian evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks has accused authorities in the country of subjecting Nigerians to discrimination, harassment and difficulties in obtaining legal immigration documents.
The returnee made the allegations after arriving in Nigeria as part of the Federal Government’s evacuation programme for citizens affected by the latest wave of anti-foreigner violence in South Africa.
Speaking in a video shared online, he advised Nigerians planning to relocate to South Africa to reconsider their decision, describing his experience in the country as discouraging.
“I don’t advise any Nigerian to get a visa and go to South Africa. Those who are still there should tidy themselves up and come back home,” he said.
The returnee alleged that many Nigerians encountered challenges in securing valid immigration documents despite making efforts to regularise their status.
“They will say people are illegal, but they are not giving them documents. How can you refuse to document people and then tag them as illegal immigrants?” he asked.
He further claimed that Nigerians were frequently singled out by security and immigration officials, leading to cases of harassment and extortion.
“As long as you are a Nigerian, you are a target,” he alleged.
Expressing disappointment over his experience, the returnee said the treatment he witnessed had inspired him to become more involved in public affairs in the future.
His remarks come amid heightened concerns over the safety of Nigerians residing in South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks that have forced some citizens to seek evacuation.
The Federal Government on Thursday received the first batch of evacuees in Lagos, while officials indicated that additional flights could be arranged for other Nigerians willing to return home.
Authorities have continued to monitor the situation as concerns grow over the welfare and security of foreign nationals affected by the unrest.
