Nigerians Under Xenophobic Attacks In South Africa

The Nigerian community in South Africa have confirmed attacks and looting of Nigerian owned businesses in Pretoria West on Saturday.

Mr Ikechukwu Anyene, President of Nigerian Union, told the News Agency of Nigeria on telephone from Pretoria, South Africa, that the attacks began at 4.00 a.m.

He said that the union had reported the incident to the Nigeria mission and South African police.

“As we speak, five buildings with Nigerian businesses, including a church have been looted and burned by South Africans.

“One of the buildings is a mechanic garage with 28 cars under repairs, with other vital documents, were burned during the attack.

“Also, the pastor of the church was wounded and is in the hospital receiving treatment,” he said.

He said the union had informed Nigerians in South Africa to be careful following these attacks.

According to him, the union received information that there will be xenophobic attacks against foreigners on February 22 and February 23.

“We began taking precautionary measures when the incident took place today.

“The attack in Pretoria West is purely xenophobic and criminal because they loot the shops and homes before burning them,” he said.

Anyene called on the Federal Government to persuade its South African counterpart to protect Nigerians in their country.

“These attacks should not be allowed to continue because it is a big setback,” he said.