BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR—The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), at its meeting held on Thursday, 7 May 2026 in Awka, Anambra State, adopted a resolution strongly condemning the recent xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other foreign nationals in the Republic of South Africa.
NEC expressed grave concern over reports of harassment, violence, destruction of businesses, and threats to the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians residing in South Africa.
The Council described xenophobic violence as a grave violation of fundamental human rights and inconsistent with the principles of human dignity, African unity, and mutual respect among nations.
NEC stated that the targeting of individuals based on nationality is unacceptable and must not be tolerated in any society governed by the rule of law.
The Council called on the Government of South Africa to take urgent and concrete measures to end xenophobic attacks, ensure the protection of all persons within its jurisdiction, and hold perpetrators accountable.
NEC also urged the Nigerian Government to take proactive diplomatic and consular measures to safeguard the rights, safety, and welfare of Nigerians residing in South Africa.
The Council further resolved that a formal letter be transmitted to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, calling on the Federal Government to immediately take concrete diplomatic and humanitarian steps to ensure the safety, protection, and where necessary, the safe evacuation and return of Nigerians affected by the attacks.
NEC emphasized that no Nigerian citizen living abroad should be abandoned in the face of violence, intimidation, or targeted attacks, and stressed that the protection of citizens remains a fundamental responsibility of every government.
The Council further emphasized that African nations must remain committed to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and the protection of all persons regardless of nationality
