Xenophobia: Peter Obi seeks resolution to Nigeria-South Africa immigration tensions

Leading opposition figure and sole presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has moved to ease growing tensions involving Nigerian expatriates in South Africa by engaging senior South African government officials and political leaders on migration and regional cooperation issues.

Obi, who arrived in South Africa on Friday for an international conference, met with Nigerians in Cape Town to understand the immigration-related challenges affecting members of the diaspora community.

In a statement shared on his X account on Saturday, Obi disclosed that he subsequently held discussions with three South African ministers and party leaders on issues surrounding immigration, youth unemployment, economic challenges, security, and the treatment of African migrants in South Africa.

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The former Anambra State governor said he met with Leon Schreiber, South Africa’s Minister of Home Affairs and a prominent member of the Democratic Alliance; Velenkosini Hlabisa, Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and leader of the Inkatha Freedom Party; and Gayton McKenzie, Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture and leader of the Patriotic Alliance.

According to Obi, the meetings provided an opportunity for “open and productive” discussions on pressing concerns affecting both countries, particularly migration-related tensions and the challenges confronting African foreigners in South Africa.

“I strongly believe that Nigeria and South Africa, both significant nations on the continent, must enhance dialogue, increase cooperation, and pursue solutions rooted in justice, mutual respect, and adherence to the rule of law,” Obi stated.

He stressed the importance of responsible leadership and restraint amid rising tensions, urging both citizens and political actors to avoid violence and hate-driven actions.

The NDC presidential candidate said all parties involved agreed on the need for law-abiding conduct and allowing democratic institutions to address grievances through constitutional processes.

“We collectively emphasised the need for law-abiding behaviour, the importance of avoiding violence, resisting hate or provocation, and allowing lawful institutions to handle grievances through democratic and constitutional means,” he said.

Obi further underscored the need for continental unity, saying Africa’s future depends on stronger collaboration, inclusive economic growth, and the protection of the dignity of Africans irrespective of where they reside.

Relations between Nigeria and South Africa have periodically faced strain over xenophobic attacks and concerns regarding the treatment of migrants, particularly Nigerians living and working in South Africa.