NANS South-West Zone D has threatened protests and picketing of South African businesses in Nigeria following the reported killing of two Nigerians in renewed xenophobic attacks
NANS Threatens Protest Against South African Businesses in Nigeria Over Xenophobic Attacks
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), South-West Zone D, has threatened to stage protests and picket South African businesses operating in Nigeria following renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
The student body expressed outrage over reports that two Nigerians were recently killed, warning that continued attacks on Nigerians abroad would no longer be tolerated.
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Ibadan, Kayode Adeyemo condemned the killings, describing them as part of a disturbing pattern of violence targeting Nigerians in South Africa.
“The recent killing of two Nigerians is not just an isolated tragedy, but a painful reminder of a recurring pattern of hostility and violence against our people,” he said.
Adeyemo insisted that the repeated targeting of Nigerians under any circumstance was unacceptable.
“The continued targeting of Nigerians under any guise is unacceptable and must come to an immediate end,” he added.
The NANS coordinator disclosed that the association had already begun mobilising students for peaceful protests and possible picketing of South African-owned firms across Nigeria.
According to him, it was unfair for South African businesses to continue thriving in Nigeria while Nigerians allegedly face fear, intimidation and deadly attacks abroad.
“It is morally indefensible for businesses to thrive in an environment where the lives of Nigerians are protected, while Nigerians are subjected to fear and violence elsewhere. This contradiction will no longer be tolerated,” Adeyemo stated.
He also called on South African authorities to take urgent and decisive action to protect foreign nationals and ensure those responsible for the attacks are brought to justice.
Despite the strong warning, Adeyemo said NANS remained open to dialogue with diplomatic representatives and business stakeholders to address the growing tension.
He, however, stressed that Nigerian students would not remain silent while the safety and dignity of Nigerians were under threat.
“This is a moment for accountability, responsibility and decisive action,” he said.
