BREAKING: Nigerian lawyer Deji Adeyanju has reacted strongly to anti-immigrant protests in South Africa, defending Nigerians and criticising comments made by some demonstrators.
ABUJA, NIGERIA — Deji Adeyanju, a Nigerian lawyer and activist, has criticised remarks made during a protest in South Africa, where some demonstrators reportedly accused Nigerians and other African nationals of taking jobs, attracting local women and living more comfortably than many South Africans. Adeyanju shared his reaction in a post on his social media page on Monday.
According to Adeyanju, some South African protesters appeared on television expressing frustration over unemployment and economic hardship, while blaming Nigerians and other African migrants for their situation. He argued that success comes through hard work and determination rather than nationality, adding that owning expensive cars or achieving financial stability requires sustained effort.
In his post, Adeyanju wrote that those blaming Nigerians should instead focus on improving their own circumstances. He also claimed that Nigerians and other African nationals have earned respect through hard work and suggested that personal success cannot be achieved by blaming foreigners. His comments further extended to relationships, where he argued that attraction is based on individual qualities rather than nationality.
Tensions involving foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians and other African migrants, have surfaced periodically in South Africa over the years. Several protests have centred on concerns about unemployment, crime and immigration, with some incidents leading to attacks on foreign-owned businesses. South African authorities have repeatedly stated that violence and intimidation against foreign nationals remain unlawful, while community leaders have called for peaceful dialogue.
The development means discussions around migration, employment and regional integration within Africa are likely to remain in focus. While social media reactions continue to generate strong opinions from both Nigerians and South Africans, officials and stakeholders are expected to encourage lawful engagement and discourage actions that could increase tensions between communities.
