At least 130 Nigerians in South Africa have asked their government to fly them home following protests targeting foreigners, Nigeria’s Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu said.
They are the first to apply to a new repatriation scheme launched by Nigeria’s government, Odumegwu-Ojukwu said on Sunday, amid fears that confrontations in South Africa could escalate.
Protesters held rallies in Pretoria and Johannesburg last week, demanding tougher action against illegal immigration. They claim undocumented foreign nationals are straining jobs, security and public services.
Migrant rights campaigners say foreigners have long been scapegoated for South Africa’s economic challenges.
South Africa last month pledged to crack down on xenophobic attacks after Ghana and other African countries reported that their nationals had faced violence and discrimination.
More protests were planned for May 4 and May 8, and Nigeria would be watching developments closely, the government said.
It has already summoned South Africa’s High Commissioner in Abuja over the situation. Nigeria’s diplomatic missions in South Africa are working with local authorities to reduce risks to Nigerians, the minister added.
