Nigerian Community Leader Urges FG to Engage South Africa Over Anti-Immigration Deadline

A Nigerian community leader in South Africa has called on the Federal Government to urgently engage South African authorities over growing concerns surrounding a June 30 deadline announced by anti-immigration groups in the country.

The Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA), Ekos Akpokabayen, made the appeal in a statement, warning that the situation could heighten tensions and pose security risks to foreign nationals living in South Africa.

Akpokabayen clarified that the June 30 deadline was not an official directive from the South African government but was instead issued by groups campaigning against foreign immigration. The groups have reportedly demanded that undocumented migrants leave the country before the stipulated date.

He expressed concern that the development could create an atmosphere of uncertainty and potentially trigger unrest if not properly managed by the relevant authorities.

According to him, the Nigerian government should take proactive steps by engaging with the South African government and other stakeholders to ensure the safety and protection of Nigerians and other foreign residents.

“I urge the Nigerian government to take proactive measures by engaging the South African government and relevant authorities,” Akpokabayen said.

The NUSA leader cautioned that tensions associated with the deadline could escalate into violence targeting both documented and undocumented migrants. He noted that criminal elements might take advantage of any unrest to attack individuals or loot businesses owned by foreign nationals.

He further urged the Nigerian Mission in South Africa to maintain close surveillance of developments and strengthen communication with community leaders across the country.

Akpokabayen said sustained consultations between diplomatic officials and community representatives would help keep Nigerians informed about unfolding events and ongoing efforts to safeguard their welfare.

He also appealed to Nigerians residing in South Africa to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding while avoiding actions that could expose them to danger.

The community leader expressed optimism that early intervention and constructive engagement by both the Nigerian and South African governments would help prevent any escalation of tensions.

“I believe any tensions associated with the June 30 deadline can be effectively managed through timely intervention,” he said.

The call comes amid concerns over recurring anti-immigrant sentiments in parts of South Africa, where foreign nationals have occasionally faced hostility, violence and attacks on their businesses during periods of social and economic tension.