Xenophobia Crisis: Returnee Claims Nigerians Were Treated Like Slaves in South Africa -

One of the Nigerians recently evacuated from South Africa has opened up about the hardship she and many others allegedly endured, claiming that Nigerians were subjected to discrimination, exploitation, and inhumane treatment.Speaking after her return to Nigeria, the woman said she had lived in South Africa for 11 years before circumstances forced her to leave.

According to her, the refusal of authorities to renew her residence permit made life increasingly difficult and left her with no option but to return home.“I stayed in South Africa for 11 years. They refused to renew my permit and treated Nigerians badly.

We suffered a lot and had no choice but to come back home,” she said.The returnee further alleged that many Nigerians in the country were treated unfairly and made to feel inferior despite their contributions to the economy and society.

According to her, some Nigerians were subjected to conditions that made them feel “like slaves,” with limited opportunities and constant fear of harassment, discrimination, and victimization because of their nationality.

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Her comments come amid renewed concerns over xenophobic attitudes and the treatment of foreign nationals in South Africa. Hundreds of Nigerians have reportedly returned home in recent days following increasing difficulties and concerns about their safety and well-being.

The woman expressed relief at being back in Nigeria, describing the return as an opportunity to start afresh after years of struggle abroad. She also called on authorities and stakeholders to pay closer attention to the plight of Nigerians living in foreign countries and ensure their rights are protected.

The arrival of the returnees has sparked conversations on social media, with many Nigerians reacting to the allegations and urging stronger diplomatic engagement to address issues affecting citizens abroad.