The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) has raised alarm over the rising deaths of Nigerians who are reportedly denied medical care by an anti-migrant group in South Africa.
According to Politics Nigeria, NUSA President Smart Nwobi explained that members of Operation Dudula have stationed themselves at public hospital entrances. They allegedly demand identity cards and block foreigners without South African citizenship documents from accessing treatment.
Moreover, Nwobi revealed that even naturalised citizens who cannot speak local languages face rejection at several health facilities. This situation, he warned, is worsening the vulnerability of Nigerians living in the country.
He stressed:
“Nigerians now resort to self-medication, which damages their health. Many lose their lives every day. Fear of assault or even death keeps them away from public hospitals. This situation requires urgent intervention.”
Anti-Migrant Hostility Intensifies During Election Periods
Furthermore, Nwobi noted that anti-migrant hostility often intensifies during election periods. As a result, foreigners, especially traders and small business owners, become prime targets of violence.
“Now that elections are approaching, anger against the ruling party shifts to foreigners. Nigerians are always among the victims,” he added.
Earlier this month, members of Operation Dudula stormed the Lilian Ngoyi Community Health Centre in Diepkloof in an attempt to shut it down. In addition, the group has consistently accused migrants of overburdening South Africa’s healthcare system.
However, the South African Department of Health condemned the protest, describing it as unlawful and disruptive to essential services.
Department spokesperson Foster Mohale stated:
“We do not condone these actions. They interfere with the proper delivery of health care in our facilities.”
The Nigerian community in South Africa has repeatedly appealed for stronger intervention from both the Nigerian government and international organisations. Many believe that without urgent diplomatic engagement, the health crisis facing Nigerians in South Africa will continue to escalate.
Analysts also warn that the growing hostility against foreigners could damage diplomatic relations between the two countries. Therefore, both governments are under pressure to address the rising tension before it sparks another wave of violence similar to past xenophobic attacks.
