We Will Begin Lawful Action to Ensure South African Businesses in Nigeria Are Shut Down— Newly Elected NAUS President

The newly elected President of the National Association of University Students (NAUS) has condemned the alleged xenophobic attacks, hate speech and violence against Nigerians in South Africa, describing the incidents as a threat to the lives and future of Nigerians living in the country.

Addressing journalists, the student leader said the recent developments had sparked widespread concern among young Nigerians, stressing that the association “unequivocally condemns every act of xenophobia, hate speech, and violence directed against Nigerians, and indeed against any African living lawfully within another African nation.”

He noted that Africa’s progress depends on unity, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence, insisting there is no place for hatred or violence among Africans. He called on the South African government to thoroughly investigate all reported cases of attacks, incitement and intimidation and ensure that anyone found responsible is prosecuted in line with the law, saying, “Every individual found culpable should be held accountable without fear or favour.”

The NAUS president also announced that the association would formally engage the South African High Commission in Nigeria to demand firm assurances regarding the safety and protection of Nigerians residing in South Africa.

Issuing a one-week ultimatum, he warned that if the South African government fails to take what he described as definitive, comprehensive and lasting measures to address the situation, NAUS would begin peaceful and lawful advocacy to press home its demands.

As part of the planned actions, he said the association would commence lawful efforts to ensure that South African-owned businesses operating in Nigeria are shut down, while its operational headquarters would be relocated to the South African High Commission in Nigeria until meaningful action is taken to guarantee the safety of Nigerians in South Africa.

The student leader maintained that the association’s planned actions would remain peaceful and lawful but cautioned against ignoring the concerns being raised, declaring, “No one has the monopoly of wisdom. No one has the monopoly of violence.”