The ongoing Xenophobic attack in South Africa is on the lips of everyone. Violent and deadly attacks are being carried out by South Africans towards Nigerians and other foreigners in the country. This article will help readers understand more about the xenophobic attack in South Africa, causes and other related things.
Apparently, this is not the first time we are witnessing such violent attacks in South Africa. Xenophobic attacks were carried out by South African backs in 2008 and 2015.
In fact, it has been in existence in South Africa dating back to 1994. So you may ask, “why are South Africans doing this now?”. It’s no coincidence that these attacks spring up back just before the beginning of the African Edition of the World Economic Forum. This forum is scheduled to hold in Cape Town on September 4, 2019. Also, a state visit by the President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari to South Africa is scheduled for next month.
What is Xenophobia?
Xenophobia can easily be defined as a fear of strangers or foreigners. It’s a strong antipathy or aversion to strangers or foreigners. You can also call it an anxiety disorder were meeting a stranger or foreigners causes an extreme reaction of fear.
What is the cause of xenophobic attacks in South Africa
The main cause of xenophobic attacks in South Africa is the belief by its citizens that foreigners are taking over their jobs. According to a 2018 research poll conducted in South Africa, 62% of South Africans sees foreigners/immigrants as a burden to their society. They feel these immigrants enjoy social benefits that are meant for me.
Which areas in South Africa are affected by Xenophobic attacks
Well, at this point, no place in South Africa is safe from xenophobic attacks. Although, the places with a high rate are mostly suburban areas. Places like Western Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and the Eastern Cape are affected the most by the attacks. These areas are experiencing the most casualties.
Ongoing Xenophobic attacks in South Africa and reactions from Nigerians
The ongoing xenophobic attacks in South Africa has seen a lot of reactions from Nigerians all over social media. Former Nigeria presidential candidate, Oby Ezekwesili has taken to Twitter and call out both presidents of Nigeria and South Africa to do something about these ongoing attacks. Popular Nigerian artiste YCee has also called out South Africa rapper AKA concerning the violence.
Also, many Nigerians are carrying out peaceful protests in ShopRite stores across the country. ShopRite is a South African company and Nigerians hope they can help stop these attacks. Many are even calling for the boycott of all South African companies in Nigeria such as MTN and MultiChoice (owners of DSTv and GOTv).
What rights does immigrants in South Africa
According to the South Africa legislation, immigrants or foreigners seeking asylum are legally entitled to the same rights as South African citizens. The only right that immigrants don’t have is the right to vote. This tends to lean on the point of the South African carrying out these attacks.
Well, right now it is not safe for any immigrants or foreigners in South Africa especially Nigerians. Though some South African politicians have condemned these attacks. It is good to know that in the past, many South African politicians from the ruling African National Congress party has made anti-immigrant comments. Even the Johannesburg’s mayor, Herman Mashaba, who is a member of the opposition party; Democratic Alliance has attracted criticism from Human Rights group over his comments on undocumented immigrants.
