The newly elected President of the National Association of University Students (NAUS), Comrade Tiamiyu Olayinka Ibraheem, has issued a strong warning to the South African government over alleged xenophobic attacks on Nigerians living in the country, threatening to mobilize actions that could disrupt South African-owned businesses operating in Nigeria.
According to Vanguard on Monday, in a statement (video) shared on X, the student leader condemned the reported attacks and hate speech against Nigerians in South Africa, declaring that “nobody has the monopoly of violence” and warning that the association would seek to shut down South African businesses in Nigeria if the situation persists.
The remarks follow renewed reports of violence and intimidation targeting foreign nationals in South Africa. According to reports cited by the association, more than 1,000 Nigerians have registered for evacuation, while several deaths this year have been linked to anti-foreigner sentiment driven by economic hardship and unemployment.
The NAUS president outlined a series of planned actions, including pursuing lawful measures to shut down South African-owned businesses in Nigeria, relocating the association’s operational headquarters to the South African High Commission in Nigeria, and issuing a one-week ultimatum to the South African government to investigate the alleged attacks, curb inciting rhetoric, and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
He also said the association would organize peaceful demonstrations and other democratic engagements if its demands are not addressed within the stipulated period.
Describing the reported attacks as deeply troubling, the student leader said the situation poses a serious threat to the safety and future of Nigerians living and studying in South Africa. He urged South African authorities to provide firm assurances regarding the protection of Nigerians residing in the country.
The latest development adds to a history of tensions between both countries over recurring xenophobic incidents. Previous outbreaks of anti-foreigner violence sparked protests in Nigeria, with demonstrators targeting South African-linked businesses such as Shoprite and MTN.
South African companies maintain significant investments across Nigeria’s telecommunications, retail, and financial sectors. Analysts have cautioned that any disruption to their operations could affect thousands of Nigerian jobs and place additional strain on economic and diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Related video