- President Cyril Ramaphosa has denied claims of xenophobia in South Africa amid rising tensions with Nigeria.
- His statement has triggered backlash online, with many Nigerians demanding stronger action and accountability.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has stated that South Africans are not xenophobic, amid rising tensions following reports that members of the Nigerian Senate threatened to boycott South African businesses, including MTN Nigeria.
Responding to the situation, Ramaphosa emphasized unity across the continent, dismissing claims of widespread hostility toward foreign nationals.
“South Africans are not against people from other nations. We are one people. We’re not xenophobic,” he said.
His comments come shortly after discussions in Nigeria over potential economic actions targeting South African companies operating in the country, following recurring concerns about attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.
The statement has since sparked strong reactions on social media, with many Nigerians expressing skepticism and frustration.
One user, @emmypau, alleged, “South African president and his cabinet are accomplice to the xenophobic attack on Africans and especially Nigerians.”
Another, @obalola213, criticized the remark, saying, “Coming out to say South Africans are not xenophobic is amusing when there is evidence all around. He should find a lasting solution to the laziness of his citizens.”
Similarly, @MichaelOlaoye27 suggested a tougher stance from Nigerian authorities, stating, “The president does not need to say anything, the only solution is that Nigeria leaders should take a hard decision on all the SA companies or citizens living in Nigeria too.”
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