A group of former lawmakers from Enugu State has submitted a petition Ramaphosa to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa over alleged xenophobic attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals. The petition calls for urgent intervention and warns of possible escalation to the International Criminal Court if the situation is not addressed.
The Forum of Former Members of the Enugu State House of Assembly raised concerns about repeated xenophobic violence in South Africa, which they said has affected foreign nationals over several years. The group referenced past incidents involving attacks on migrants, including Nigerians, across different regions of the country.
Xenophobic violence in South Africa has been a recurring issue since the post-apartheid era, with reported outbreaks in 2008, 2015, and 2019. These incidents have often led to diplomatic engagements between South Africa and affected countries, including Nigeria.
The petition Ramaphosa was dated May 3, 2026, and signed by the forum’s chairman, Denge Josef Umunnakwe Onoh. It was directed to the Office of the President of South Africa. The group described the situation as “persistent and deadly waves of xenophobic violence” and alleged that South African authorities had not done enough to protect foreign nationals.
The petition specifically referenced the killings of two Nigerians, Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, in April 2026, describing them as part of ongoing attacks targeting migrants. It also claimed that monitoring groups have documented hundreds of deaths linked to xenophobic violence since 1994, alongside widespread displacement and destruction of property belonging to foreign nationals.
As part of the petition Ramaphosa, the former lawmakers warned that failure to take decisive action could lead to international legal consequences, including proceedings at the International Criminal Court under provisions relating to crimes against humanity. The group also demanded stronger protection for foreign nationals, independent investigations into recent killings, prosecution of perpetrators, and compensation for victims.
The petition Ramaphosa highlights ongoing diplomatic pressure on South Africa regarding the safety of foreign nationals within its borders. It reflects continued concern from Nigerian stakeholders over the protection of citizens abroad.
The mention of possible ICC involvement introduces an international legal dimension that could influence diplomatic relations between Nigeria and South Africa if tensions escalate. It also underscores broader regional concerns about migration safety and human rights enforcement.
