Nigerian nationals residing in South Africa have raised formal concerns over renewed xenophobic hostilities allegedly orchestrated by a group known as Operation Dudula. According to community leaders, the group has engaged in unlawful activities, including blocking access to public hospitals, harassing immigrants, and expelling patients under duress.
Eyewitness reports indicate that women have been forced to deliver children on bare floors outside medical facilities without medical assistance, while other patients were discharged without adequate treatment. Such actions have been described as “criminal” and in violation of Section 27 of the South African Constitution, which guarantees access to healthcare services.
Leaders of the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa and the Nigerian Union in South Africa have formally appealed for urgent diplomatic intervention, warning that the situation constitutes a continuation of xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals. They further disclosed that representations have been made to the Nigerian Embassy, while regional groups, including the African Diaspora Forum, are considering legal action, including injunctions before the South African High Court.
Former Nigerian diplomats also condemned the reported abuses, describing them as illegal, discriminatory, and reminiscent of apartheid-era hostilities. They urged the Nigerian Government to summon South Africa’s envoy and demand concrete measures to protect foreign nationals.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that African Ambassadors in South Africa are engaging with Pretoria to secure a lasting resolution.#newsafro_
