Niger Delta Youth Leaders Issue Strong Warning Over Xenophobic Attacks, Demand Decisive Action Against South Africa,

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Niger Delta Youth Leaders Issue Strong Warning Over Xenophobic Attacks, Demand Decisive Action Against South Africa,

By Egbemavoice,

Niger Delta youth leaders, under the leadership of Comrade Mingo Sayami Ogumaka, have issued a firm and unequivocal condemnation of the continued xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa, describing the situation as a grave violation of human dignity, African solidarity, and international law.

In a strongly worded statement, Comrade Mingo expressed deep outrage over the recurring waves of violence recorded in 2007, 2011, 2017, 2020, and now 2026. He noted that these repeated incidents have led to the tragic loss of innocent lives, widespread destruction of businesses and properties, and the persistent targeting of Nigerians through brutal acts, including killings, assaults, and public humiliation.

The leadership raised serious concerns over the alleged inaction of relevant authorities in South Africa during such incidents, stressing that any failure to protect lives and property constitutes a breach of fundamental responsibilities under international human rights obligations and undermines the rule of law.

In a decisive move, the Niger Delta youth leaders mingo called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to consider targeted economic and diplomatic sanctions against South Africa in response to the continued attacks.

He said these measures, he noted, may include: A review of the operations of South African-owned companies in Nigeria, in line with Nigerian laws and bilateral agreements

Appropriate regulatory actions where necessary, to ensure accountability and national interest protection

Strategic economic measures that signal Nigeria’s firm stance against injustice and protect its citizens

The regional youth leaders mingo further rejected narratives that blame foreign nationals for domestic economic challenges, warning that such claims dangerously incite violence, deepen division, and erode the long-standing spirit of African unity and cooperation.

The Niger Delta youth leaders call for immediate, coordinated, and strategic action, including:

1. Urgent diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and South Africa to decisively address the recurring crisis,

2. Strengthened protection mechanisms for Nigerians and other African nationals residing in South Africa,

3. Provision of voluntary evacuation and support for Nigerians willing to return home,

4. Full enforcement and comprehensive review of bilateral agreements to ensure accountability and mutual respect,

5. Swift investigation and prosecution of perpetrators, in accordance with international human rights standards,

He urged the Federal Government of Nigeria, under the leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to take decisive, proactive, and sustained measures to safeguard Nigerian citizens abroad. They also called on the National Assembly, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alongside relevant ministries, departments, and diplomatic missions, to prioritize the protection, dignity, and welfare of Nigerians through urgent legislative and diplomatic interventions.

Call for Responsible and Lawful Response

While expressing deep concern and frustration, the leaders emphasized that all responses must remain lawful, strategic, and aligned with national and international legal frameworks. Mingo sayami stressed that constructive diplomacy, firm engagement, and multilateral cooperation remain the most effective pathways toward sustainable resolution and regional stability.

The Niger Delta youth leaders ogumaka reiterate that continued attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals anywhere on the continent are unacceptable and must be confronted with urgency, sincerity, and accountability.

He call on governments, civil society organizations, and international partners to work collectively to ensure safety, justice, and peaceful coexistence across Africa.

“Enough is enough. The protection of African lives must remain a shared and non-negotiable responsibility.”

The Niger Delta Youth Leaders Demand Firm Measures, Call for Shutdown of South African Business Interests Amid Ongoing Attacks he declared that it is no longer acceptable for continued attacks on Nigerians in South Africa to coexist with thriving South African business operations in Nigeria. In a strongly worded statement, Comrade Mingo decree that the persistent loss of Nigerian lives and destruction of properties in South Africa stands in sharp contrast to the enabling environment enjoyed by South African companies operating within Nigeria.

“South Africa cannot continue to witness the killing and humiliation of Nigerians while its businesses flourish freely on Nigerian soil. This contradiction is unjust and unacceptable,” he stated.

The Niger Delta youth leadership called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to take decisive, lawful, and proportionate measures, including: An immediate regulatory review of South African-owned businesses operating in Nigeria, Temporary suspension or shutdown of operations where necessary, in line with Nigerian laws and national interest,

Deployment of strong economic and diplomatic pressure to compel accountability and protection of Nigerians abroad,

They stressed that such actions should be carried out within the framework of Nigerian law and international obligations, ensuring that national dignity and citizen safety remain paramount.

The leaders further insisted that, the safety of Nigerians in South Africa must be guaranteed without compromise,  Perpetrators of xenophobic violence must be identified, prosecuted, and punished,  The South African government must demonstrate clear commitment to ending these attacks

The youth leaders urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to act with urgency and firmness in defending Nigerian citizens.

They also called on the National Assembly, under Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alongside relevant ministries and regulatory agencies, to support immediate policy actions that reflect Nigeria’s resolve.

The Niger Delta youth leaders reiterated that Nigeria must not appear weak or indifferent in the face of repeated attacks on its citizens.

“Enough is enough. The protection of Nigerian lives must take precedence over all economic considerations.”