Tinubu Takes Fight Against Xenophobic, Afrophobic Attacks By South Africa To AU

President Bola Tinubu formally lodged a formal complaint against the rising incidents of xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks against Africans and other nationals in South Africa to the African Union (AU) during the 21st Extraordinary Session of the Assembly in Luanda, Angola. Tinubu emphasized that such incidents undermine the continent's solidarity, unity, and peaceful coexistence, urging African leaders to place the matter on the agenda for the upcoming 40th Ordinary Session of the Assembly, scheduled for January 2027. He called for immediate collective action to preserve peace at the summit.

Acknowledging South Africa's sovereign right to enforce its immigration laws, Tinubu stressed that these attacks are detrimental to African unity. He advocated for stronger continental efforts to combat xenophobia and Afrophobia through dialogue, preventive diplomacy, and collective action. Nigeria also expressed support for the Luanda Action Plan as a roadmap for strengthening conflict prevention, arguing that prevention is more cost-effective and sustainable than management.

Tinubu cautioned that external interference through foreign military forces, mercenaries, and private defense contractors could weaken the AU's conflict prevention mechanisms and African ownership. He urged member states to strengthen cooperation with arms-producing and exporting countries to prevent weapons from being diverted to terrorists and non-state armed groups.

The president emphasized the need for renewed commitment to collective responsibility for Africa's peace and security, advocating for home-grown solutions, stronger cooperation, and shared responsibility in tackling the continent's security challenges.