Stop attacks on Nigerians, youth leaders warn South Africa

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By Madu Obi

The Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders (CONYL), the umbrella body of youth groups drawn across the country's six geopolitical zones, has expressed deep outrage over the continued harassment, intimidation, and violent attacks against Nigerians residing in South Africa, warning that enough is enough.

Leader of the group, Comrade Goodluck Ibem, described the attacks as unacceptable, unjustifiable, wicked, barbaric and a direct assault on African unity, brotherhood, and shared history.

"We remind our South African brothers and sisters that Nigeria stood firmly with them during their darkest days.

From diplomatic pressure to material and moral support, Nigerian leaders and citizens, including foremost nationalists, played a significant role in the struggle against apartheid and the eventual liberation of South Africa. That legacy must not be repaid with hostility and violence.

It is, therefore, shocking and deeply disappointing that Nigerians—who contributed to the fight for freedom—are now being targeted and treated as enemies", Ibem said.

He urged the Government of South Africa to act immediately by protecting Nigerians and other African nationals within its borders.

He also called on the government to identify, arrest, and prosecute the perpetrators without delay and take concrete steps to prevent further xenophobic violence.

According to him, failure to act decisively will compel Nigerian youths and stakeholders to begin coordinated lawful advocacy for economic and diplomatic measures, which

may include calls for a reassessment of the operations of South African businesses like MTN and other firms in Nigeria and a broader review of bilateral engagements.

"Let it be clear: Nigerians will not remain silent while our citizens are attacked abroad. We believe in African unity, but unity cannot exist where injustice thrives.

This is a defining moment. South Africa must choose the path of justice, protection, and mutual respect", Ibem said.