Nigerian entrepreneur Itoro Victor Richard says growing anti-immigrant hostility in South Africa forced him and his family to leave the country after 15 years of living and building businesses there.
Speaking on the Arise News Morning Show on Monday, July 6, 2026, Richard said he initially enjoyed a peaceful life in South Africa, where he established businesses and started a family. However, he said relations with some members of the local community deteriorated as anti-foreigner sentiment intensified.
According to Richard, the hostility extended to his South African wife because of her marriage to a Nigerian. He said, “My wife was told that she would be arrested, that they should arrest any South African national who marries a foreign national, and that we should take our family and go.”
Richard said the threats left his family living in fear and convinced him that their safety could no longer be guaranteed. He said he was ultimately forced to abandon his home, businesses and investments to protect his family.
His account adds to growing testimonies from Nigerians who say worsening anti-immigrant sentiment in South Africa has compelled them to return home and rebuild their lives.
