Nigeria seeks compensation from South Africa over anti-illegal immigrant Protests, SA reacts

Nigeria's Foreign Ministry has officially announced its intention to seek financial compensation from South Africa. This move follows the departure of over 600 Nigerian nationals who fled the country amid escalating anti-illegal immigration protests and government-led repatriation efforts.

The exodus comes as South African movements demand that undocumented foreigners leave by June 30, 2026. While several African nations like Zimbabwe and Ghana have organized transport for their citizens, Nigeria is taking the additional step of tallying the economic cost of these departures.

Verifying the Bill for Losses

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa confirmed to the BBC that the Nigerian government will raise the issue of compensation with Pretoria. He clarified that all claims will undergo a strict verification process before a formal request for payment is submitted to the South African government.

Acting High Commissioner to South Africa, Alexander Ajayi, stated that officials have already started the process of registering abandoned assets. This includes businesses, vehicles, and both movable and immovable properties left behind by those fleeing for their safety.

Personal Cost of the Exodus

Among those impacted is 32-year-old Oghodero Erejor Wilson, who operated a clothing store in Centurion. Wilson claimed he had to abandon merchandise worth over R16,000 to seek refuge near the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria before his scheduled repatriation flight.

Despite his significant losses, Wilson expressed doubt regarding the success of the compensation bid. He is one of many who received initial financial stipends and communication packages upon arriving in Lagos, courtesy of an emergency intervention approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Public Reaction and Diplomatic Tensions

The demand for compensation has sparked intense debate online, with many social media users expressing skepticism. While Nigeria aims to protect the interests of its citizens, local sentiment in South Africa remains divided as movements continue to push the "South Africa for South Africans" narrative.

As the June 2026 deadline approaches, the diplomatic relationship between the two African powerhouses faces fresh strain. The focus now shifts to how Pretoria will respond to the forthcoming invoice for the livelihoods lost during this period of unrest.