Nigerian flees South Africa as anti-immigrant protests grow

On August 3, 2026, the situation of a Nigerian businessman who left his family and businesses in Johannesburg came to prominence, reflecting the escalation of anti-immigrant protests in South Africa.

Itoro leaves family and businesses in Johannesburg

At 47 years old, Itoro feared for his safety as anti-migration protests intensified this year. In June, he boarded a voluntary repatriation flight to Nigeria, leaving behind his South African wife, twin children, and the car dealership he had built over 15 years.

He recalls, with tears in his eyes, that "it was painful for me to leave the person who is my best friend". Neighbors allegedly told the wife that, being married to a Nigerian, she should leave him and exit the country.

Reaction of the high Nigerian commission

The high Nigerian commission did not allow the wife and children to travel with Itoro, despite him possessing documents that prove his legal right to remain in South Africa. The businessman showed the BBC a copy of the document confirming his regular status.

Incident involving a Nigerian citizen and investigation

Recently, a Nigerian was killed when police attempted to arrest him on suspicion of drug trafficking. An independent body began investigating the case, while South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola said the country deals with those who act on their own, but acknowledged President Cyril Ramaphosa's firmness regarding the sovereign right to enforce immigration laws.

Story of Emmanuel Asamoah, Ghanaian stylist

Emmanuel Asamoah, 37, arrived from Ghana in 2023 and settled in Soweto, where he worked as a hairdresser. Three months before returning to the capital Accra, he was surrounded by South Africans who demanded his departure, an episode captured on video. He describes the situation as "pushes, questions and harassment" and says he was accused of "spoiling the country".

Back in Ghana, Asamoah, with support from a Ghanaian businessman, opened a cement business and intends to rebuild his life.

Positions of South African and Ghanaian ministers

South African Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie emphasized that South Africa is open to immigrants who come legally, requesting documents. He also pointed to the high unemployment rate — over 30% — as a factor fueling tension.

Ghanaian Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa condemned the way Ghanaian citizens are treated in South Africa, claiming it breaches continental solidarity and the pan-African spirit. He said he remains in dialogue with the country and that his wife should join him soon.

With information from BBC News.