Nigeria’s Consulate in Johannesburg responds to reported attacks on Nigerian-owned businesses and churches in South Africa, urging investigations and calm
The Consul General of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Johannesburg, Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, on 5 July 2026 in Johannesburg, South Africa, issued a strongly worded statement condemning renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerian-owned businesses and churches across parts of the country, describing the incidents as “unconscionable” and deeply damaging to bilateral community relations.
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The condemnation followed a series of reported incidents involving arson, looting, and destruction of property targeting Nigerian nationals and other African migrants.
The Consulate said the wave of violence had forced some Nigerian entrepreneurs to shut down operations, with losses running into millions of rand and several community institutions left in ruins.
According to Ambassador Okey-Uche, the attacks represent a disturbing escalation of Afrophobic sentiment, particularly against legally registered Nigerian enterprises and religious centres.
The Consulate cited incidents beginning in May 2026, including an attack on Gateway Car Wash in Qonce, where protesters allegedly demanded the closure of the business despite its employment of South African workers.
The statement also detailed repeated assaults on Nigerian churches, including First Christ Feet Ministries in Durban, which was reportedly vandalised and looted on 20 May 2026, with equipment worth millions of rand destroyed.
The Consulate noted that the same church was targeted again on 7 June 2026 after partial recovery efforts.
A further incident on 3 June 2026 involved Freedom Embassies Ministries International in Johannesburg, which was also looted and damaged.
On 5 July 2026, a Nigerian-owned mechanic workshop and spare parts yard in Jules, Johannesburg, was set ablaze, destroying vehicles and equipment on site.
Ambassador Okey-Uche said the pattern of attacks was unacceptable and called on South African authorities to intensify investigations and ensure accountability.
“These repeated acts of violence against peaceful businesses and places of worship cannot be justified under any circumstance,” she stated, urging swift action to restore public confidence.
The Consulate emphasised that under international law, host governments bear responsibility for protecting foreign nationals and their property.
It warned that continued violence risks undermining the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa and weakening long-standing diplomatic and economic ties between both nations.
Despite the distressing reports, the Consulate reaffirmed its commitment to supporting affected Nigerians and maintaining diplomatic engagement with South African authorities.
Ambassador Okey-Uche urged citizens to remain calm and law-abiding while security measures are reinforced.
“We will continue to engage relevant authorities to ensure justice is served and that Nigerians are protected,” she added, stressing that lives and livelihoods must be safeguarded above all else.
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The Nigerian Consulate xenophobic attacks South Africa condemnation adds to growing concerns over recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa, where Nigerian communities have repeatedly reported targeted attacks on businesses, churches, and informal settlements over the years.
