Group Demands Federal Government Impose Sanctions on South Africa Over Xenophobic Attacks

The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights has called on the Federal Government to impose diplomatic and economic sanctions against South Africa following repeated xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians and other African nationals.

The human rights group condemned what it described as persistent, brutal assaults, intimidation, destruction of businesses, and targeted killings of African immigrants by South African mobs, stating that such actions have become a disgrace to the ideals of Pan-African solidarity.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the CDHR expressed deep concern that despite previous diplomatic engagements and promises from South African authorities, the attacks have continued without abatement.

The group specifically criticised the administration of President Cyril Ramaphosa, arguing that the failure to prosecute perpetrators and dismantle structures that encourage xenophobic violence amounts to tacit approval of hatred and criminal atrocities.

The CDHR also directed sharp criticism at the National Assembly, accusing lawmakers of lethargy and indifference toward the suffering of Nigerians abroad.

The group warned that unless the Federal Government takes stringent measures, it may be forced to organise mass action and nationwide picketing of South African-owned establishments operating in Nigeria.

Among the specific demands made by the group are the recall of Nigeria’s diplomatic representatives from South Africa, the closure of the South African Embassy in Nigeria, and the suspension of South African Airways operations in the country.

The CDHR also called for a comprehensive review of South African-linked businesses in Nigeria, including MTN, MultiChoice, DStv, GOtv, Stanbic IBTC, Shoprite, PEP Stores, and others.

The group further stated that Nigeria cannot continue to serve as an economic haven for South African interests while Nigerian citizens are treated as endangered migrants abroad.