Wednesday, June 8, 2026 - Senator Victor Umeh has condemned xenophobic attacks
targeting Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa, accusing some
South Africans of forgetting Nigeria’s historical support during the struggle
against apartheid.
Speaking on the issue during an interview on Channels TV,
the senator argued that Nigeria should take stronger action against South
Africa, including reconsidering the continued presence of South African
businesses in the country. "South Africans are worse than ingrates. We can
send them away from here, including their businesses. Who cares? There's
nothing they are doing in Nigeria that we cannot do ourselves."
Umeh said Nigeria would not collapse if South African
companies were asked to leave, arguing that Nigerian businesses and
entrepreneurs have the capacity to fill any gaps created. He specifically
pointed to the digital sector, saying Nigeria has the ability to compete and
develop its own solutions rather than relying on foreign companies.
According to the senator, some South Africans who now accuse
foreigners of taking jobs are targeting opportunities that were not available
to many citizens during apartheid. He recalled that during apartheid, many
South Africans worked in low-paying and menial roles, while Nigerians viewed
the system as unjust and supported efforts to help liberate the country.
Umeh said Nigerians stood with South Africans during
difficult times and criticised what he described as a lack of appreciation for
that support. He further warned that South Africa risks becoming isolated if
xenophobic attacks continue, saying international rejection could force the
country to reflect on its actions. "South Africa is becoming a pariah
state, and when people avoid them, they will realise what they did."
The senator called on the Nigerian government to respond
firmly to attacks against Nigerians abroad, insisting that the country should
protect its citizens and defend its national interests.
Watch the video below…………………………….
There’s nothing South Africans are doing in this country we cannot do, send them away - Senator VICTOR UMEH (VIDEO) pic.twitter.com/Z4sG1gg7NB
— DAILY POST 🇳🇬 (@dailypost_ng) July 8, 2026

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