A Nigerian trader has described his ordeal after coming back from South Africa, saying increasing xenophobic violence compelled him to shut down his business and return home for safety.
The herbal medicine vendor explained that he faced prejudice and physical attacks while residing in South Africa, noting that many foreigners, especially Nigerians, were singled out due to their nationality.
Nigerians Singled Out Excessively
In a widely shared clip, he remarked that running a enterprise in South Africa poses serious obstacles, particularly for outsiders who lack fluency in any local language.
He stated, “South Africa presents numerous difficulties for where we conduct our trade,” adding that individuals identified as foreigners often receive unequal treatment.
According to him, prosperous Nigerians are routinely regarded with distrust.
“When you acquire a vehicle or undertake something commendable, they assume you might be dealing in illicit goods,” he asserted.
While admitting that certain Nigerians may participate in unlawful acts, he stressed that the entire community should not be condemned collectively.
“Not every Nigerian engages in wrongdoing in South Africa, yet the focus on Nigerians remains excessive,” he declared.
Looting and Assaults Intensify
The seller alleged that conditions have worsened over the past few weeks, hindering foreigners from moving freely or sustaining their livelihoods.
He said, “At present the situation is dreadful. You cannot stroll or engage in any activity. They are pillaging numerous items. We have suffered significant losses in South Africa.”
He characterized the current surge of xenophobic hostility as more severe than earlier episodes.
“The xenophobia unfolding today is the most extreme,” he noted, emphasizing that foreigners are allegedly targeted irrespective of their documentation status.
“Whether you possess papers or not, they insist you depart. They refuse to listen. They will ransack you, seize all belongings, and then assault you,” he claimed.
He also asserted that multiple individuals have lost their lives during the turmoil, alleging that a Nigerian was recently slain in the Sunnyside district.
Return to Nigeria Brings Relief
After arriving back in Nigeria, the herbal medicine trader expressed gratitude for escaping unharmed.
He exclaimed, “I am relieved because I avoided losing my life there. I am now in Nigeria, my homeland, and I am thankful to have returned.”
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Nigerian man who sold medicinal herbs in South Africa says this is the worst xenophobic attack in years pic.twitter.com/hleYaMXfwg
— TheCable (@thecableng) July 2, 2026
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