Nigeria has warned that retaliatory measures against South Africa remain under consideration following allegations of xenophobic attacks and harassment targeting Nigerian nationals. Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu accused South African authorities of failing to adequately protect foreign citizens, claiming that two Nigerians died from injuries sustained at the hands of South African security forces. However, the South African government denies there have been extrajudicial killings. Nevertheless, the situation has prompted the West African country to begin repatriating its citizens, beginning with 268 citizens this Thursday. Analysts believe that if Nigeria were to retaliate, it would either restrict visas for South Africans or disrupt South African businesses operating in the country. Such a scenario, they argue, would be detrimental to both countries. Yet, such rhetoric could benefit politicians seeking to project strength amid domestic political pressures.
Daily Maverick
