South Africa Rejects Nigeria’s Compensation Demand Over Xenophobic Attacks

The South African government has turned down Nigeria’s request for compensation for citizens who abandoned their businesses and properties while fleeing the recent wave of xenophobic attacks in the country. The decision was announced on Friday after Nigeria disclosed plans to document losses suffered by affected citizens.

The Nigerian government had earlier revealed that it was compiling details of businesses, homes and other property left behind by Nigerians who returned home because of the violence. The information was expected to support discussions with South African authorities on possible compensation for the victims.

Acting Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Temitope Ajayi, had explained earlier in the week that the Federal Government was gathering records of the losses as part of efforts to seek support for those affected by the attacks.

Responding to the request, South Africa’s Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said the government would not pay compensation for properties abandoned by foreign nationals. She maintained that owners of legally registered properties have the opportunity to sell them through the country’s property market instead of expecting compensation from the government.

The minister also argued that structures located in informal settlements do not qualify as recognised property because such settlements are considered illegal under South African law. She added that authorities would not accept claims relating to buildings erected in those locations.

Ntshavheni further alleged that law enforcement agencies would welcome information on locations used for criminal activities, including suspected drug operations, saying such information would assist the government in tackling crime.

She also announced that the South African government had approved new measures aimed at preventing the return of informal settlements after they have been demolished.

The dispute comes after renewed xenophobic attacks targeted African migrants in different parts of South Africa, forcing many Nigerians and other foreign nationals to leave the country over fears for their safety. The Nigerian government has continued efforts to support affected citizens while seeking accountability for losses suffered during the attacks.