Xenophobia: South Africa should pay R1bn for each Nigerian killed, business destroyed – Group

Nigerians residing in South Africa have demanded that their country seeks reparation from South Africa for every Nigerian killed and for the destruction of Nigerian-owned businesses during recent xenophobic attacks. Akaninyene Willie, President of Akwa Ibom Indigenes Forum in South Africa, proposed this demand following the Federal Government's decision to ban further official travel to South Africa.

Willie urged Nigeria to exert stronger diplomatic pressure on South Africa, including seeking reparations of at least one billion rand for each Nigerian killed and for businesses destroyed. He argued that this demand was necessary due to the perceived lack of responsibility shown by South African authorities in addressing the damage inflicted on Nigerians and other foreign nationals.

Willie also suggested approaching the International Criminal Court (ICC) as an alternative avenue for justice, as the African Union (AU) has been unhelpful. A legal practitioner, Osai Ahiakwo, acknowledged the legitimacy of the demand for reparations but deemed the travel ban insufficient. Ahiakwo argued that while the travel restriction sends a message of displeasure and creates pressure on South Africa, it does not directly protect Nigerians already in South Africa or address ongoing killings.

He suggested the travel ban be used as diplomatic leverage to push for concrete actions from South African authorities, such as protection for Nigerians, investigations into reported killings, and prosecution of perpetrators.