South Africa’s Consul-General, Prof. Bobby Moroe, has rejected claims of xenophobia targeting Nigerians and other foreigners.
Moroe spoke during an interview on Nigeria Info FM while addressing concerns over attacks involving migrants.
He assured Nigerians and other foreigners that South African authorities would protect their rights under the country’s laws.
“There’s no xenophobia in South Africa,” Moroe said in response to concerns raised during the interview.
The interviewer questioned whether previous attacks against Nigerians and other foreigners could be described as xenophobic.
Moroe referred to Nigeria’s past treatment of foreigners, including the expulsion of Ghanaians during the “Ghana Must Go” period.
He argued that economic concerns had influenced such actions rather than hatred toward foreigners.
“We only said they should go back to their country because, you know, we wanted better economy for ourselves,” Moroe said.
However, Moroe acknowledged that Nigerians have reasons to remain concerned about their safety in South Africa.
He said the government does not support attacks against anyone, regardless of their nationality or immigration status.
“Yeah, no, your concerns are genuine. But as a government, we condemn ab*se of any individuals, whether South African or foreigner, even if you are illegal.
Whether you are legal or illegal, you have a right according to the South African Constitution for protection,” he said.
Moroe said unemployment, poverty and inequality remain serious concerns among South Africans.
However, he stressed that violence against foreigners is not an acceptable response to those problems.
The diplomat also questioned why South Africa is often linked so closely with the term xenophobia.
“The nomenclature xenophobia has become synonymous with South Africa. If it happens in other countries like it’s happening in Ghana now, it is not given the name xenophobia, it’s called something else,” Moroe said.
Moroe’s comments seek to reassure Nigerians amid continuing concerns about migrant safety and attacks.
