A Nigerian evacuee from South Africa, Maduabuchukwu John Okeke, has alleged that a fellow Nigerian was beaten to death during the latest wave of xenophobic attacks in the country.
Speaking to Vanguard Newspapers, Okeke recounted the experiences of Nigerians evacuated after the unrest, describing incidents of violence, intimidation and displacement allegedly targeting foreign nationals.
“One of us passed away yesterday because of this. They were hitting the guy with stick and the guy passed away yesterday,” Okeke said.
He said the incident highlights the severity of the attacks, adding that many Nigerians were forced to flee their homes, businesses and jobs for fear of further violence.
Okeke’s account adds to similar testimonies from other returnees, who have alleged repeated harassment, physical assaults and discrimination during the unrest. The evacuees have called on the Nigerian and South African governments to strengthen measures to protect foreign nationals and prevent further attacks.:::
