RE: Xenophobic Attacks and ANC’s Leadership Failures
By Idara Anita Udofia
I read with great interest the editorial published on Page 8 of Vanguard newspaper on 31 July 2026, titled “Xenophobic Attacks and ANC’s Leadership Failures.” The editorial rightly condemns the recurring attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa and calls for justice for the victims. On that fundamental point, there can be no disagreement. No African should be assaulted, intimidated or discriminated against because of nationality. Every individual deserves to live and work in safety, dignity and freedom, regardless of where they come from.
However, while the editorial correctly denounces the violence, its attempt to place the blame principally on the African National Congress (ANC) oversimplifies a far more complex problem. Xenophobia in South Africa did not emerge overnight, nor can it be explained solely by the shortcomings of one political party. It is the product of deep-rooted economic, historical, social and political challenges that have accumulated over decades. While government leadership must be held accountable for protecting lives and maintaining public order, reducing the crisis to partisan failure risks overlooking the broader forces that continue to fuel hostility against migrants.
South Africa remains one of the world’s most unequal societies, with persistently high unemployment, especially among young people. Many communities face rising living costs, inadequate housing and limited access to public services. In such circumstances, migrants are often unfairly portrayed as competitors for scarce jobs, housing and business opportunities. Opportunistic politicians and criminal elements frequently exploit these frustrations, creating the false impression that foreign nationals are responsible for problems rooted in structural economic realities. While these conditions may help explain the rise of xenophobic sentiments, they can never justify violence against innocent people.
It is equally important to acknowledge that successive South African governments have not been entirely silent or inactive. Authorities have repeatedly condemned xenophobic attacks, deployed security personnel during outbreaks of violence, initiated investigations and prosecuted some offenders. These interventions have admittedly fallen short of expectations and have often lacked consistency. Nevertheless, it would be inaccurate to suggest that the government has done absolutely nothing. The greater challenge lies in ensuring that official responses are proactive, sustained and effective enough to prevent recurring violence.
The solution, therefore, extends beyond emergency security measures. Strong law enforcement must be complemented by long-term investments in education, economic inclusion and public awareness. Schools, religious institutions, community leaders and civil society organisations all have critical roles in promoting tolerance, combating misinformation and fostering peaceful coexistence. Xenophobia thrives where ignorance and fear prevail; it diminishes where understanding and dialogue flourish.
The editorial also reminds readers of Nigeria’s immense support for South Africa during the struggle against apartheid. Indeed, Nigeria provided diplomatic backing, financial assistance, scholarships and unwavering political support to the anti-apartheid movement. That solidarity remains one of the proudest chapters in Africa’s collective history and deserves continued recognition.
Yet history, while important, should not become the sole basis for present-day diplomacy. Relations between Nigeria and South Africa today are defined not only by shared history but also by significant trade, investment, educational exchanges and people-to-people ties. As Africa’s two largest economies, both countries have much to gain from cooperation and much to lose from prolonged diplomatic hostility.
For this reason, calls for retaliatory action against South African businesses operating in Nigeria should be approached with caution. Such measures may satisfy public anger temporarily, but they are unlikely to address the root causes of xenophobia. Instead, they could jeopardise thousands of Nigerian jobs, discourage investment and ultimately harm ordinary citizens more than policymakers. Retaliation often creates new victims without solving the original problem.
Rather than exchanging threats, both governments should deepen diplomatic engagement. Regular bilateral consultations on migration, public safety and conflict prevention would strengthen mutual trust and improve the protection of citizens living in either country. Intelligence sharing, closer law enforcement cooperation and early warning mechanisms could help prevent future attacks before they escalate.
Regional institutions must also rise to the occasion. The African Union should take a stronger leadership role by developing a continent-wide framework for preventing xenophobia and protecting migrants’ rights. Such a framework would establish common standards for responding to attacks, encourage cooperation among member states and reinforce Africa’s commitment to human rights and regional integration.
The media, too, has an indispensable responsibility. Journalists must report migration issues fairly, accurately and responsibly. Sensational headlines, stereotypes and misinformation can inflame tensions and deepen prejudice. Balanced reporting that highlights both the challenges and the positive contributions of migrants can help reshape public perceptions and discourage hate-driven narratives.
Likewise, civil society organisations, faith-based institutions, youth groups and traditional leaders should intensify efforts to promote dialogue, cultural understanding and peaceful coexistence. Sustainable peace is built not only through government policies but also through stronger relationships within communities.
Ultimately, Africa cannot build genuine unity through blame, hostility or retaliation. It requires accountable leadership, respect for human rights, inclusive economic development and a shared commitment to justice. Governments must enforce the law impartially, prosecute perpetrators of violence and protect vulnerable communities, while citizens must reject prejudice and embrace the values of African solidarity.
The fight against xenophobia is not South Africa’s burden alone; it is a continental responsibility. Africa’s future depends on strengthening cooperation among its peoples while safeguarding the dignity and rights of every individual, regardless of nationality. Rather than allowing fear and division to define the continent, African leaders and citizens must work together to ensure that diversity becomes a source of strength. Only through practical solutions, sustained cooperation and unwavering respect for human dignity can the vision of a united, peaceful and prosperous Africa become a lasting reality.
Idara Anita Udofia is a 300-level Mass Communication student at Prime University, currently undergoing her internship at Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR).
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