Nigerian returnees from South Africa describe harrowing experiences of xenophobia, leaving them scarred but resilient.
Over 500 Nigerians have returned to their homeland in recent years due to xenophobic attacks in South Africa. The latest batch of returnees, who recently arrived in Abuja, recounted their harrowing experiences of racism, violence, and financial hardship.
**A Life of Fear and Uncertainty**
Their stories paint a grim picture of a life of constant fear, as they navigated a complex system of bureaucratic red tape and discriminatory laws.
Aisha Abubakar, a 35-year-old mother of two, described the moment she was attacked by a group of South Africans in a Johannesburg suburb. “I was at the market when they started shouting ‘Afrika boer, afrika boer’ – a xenophobic slogan that has become all too familiar. They threw stones, shattered my phone, and made me feel like I was nothing but a second-class citizen,” she said.
**A Nation’s Response**
Nigeria’s government has pledged to support the returnees, offering them a fresh start and a chance to rebuild their lives.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has promised to provide the returnees with relief packages, including financial assistance, housing, and vocational training. “We understand the trauma and hardship they’ve faced, and we’re committed to helping them integrate back into society,” said Abike Dabiri-Erewa, head of NiDCOM.
**What this means**
The return of these Nigerians highlights the urgent need for governments and international organizations to address the root causes of xenophobia and create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for migrants and refugees.
Their stories serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of xenophobia and the importance of supporting those who have been displaced. As they begin their journey towards healing and rebuilding, the international community must come together to ensure that no one has to face such ordeals in the future.
