Richard Itoro, a 47-year-old Nigerian man, recently shared the emotional ordeal of leaving his South African wife and twin children behind as he fled rising xenophobic violence in Johannesburg.
Having lived in South Africa for over 15 years, Itoro built a successful car dealership and owned a home, establishing a stable family life with his wife. However, escalating anti-migrant protests earlier this year forced him onto a voluntary repatriation flight back to Nigeria in June.
Growing Hostility and Threats
Itoro described how the environment turned hostile, with neighbors warning his wife about her marriage to a Nigerian, urging them to leave the country. Despite his legal residency status, he and his family faced increasing intimidation and fear for their safety.
Separation from Family
Adding to his distress, the Nigerian High Commission did not allow his wife and children to accompany him on the repatriation flight. Reflecting on the painful moment of departure, Itoro likened it to scenes from a war zone, leaving him feeling empty-handed and uncertain about the future.
Broader Impact of Xenophobia
- Thousands of foreign nationals have left South Africa amid the unrest, straining diplomatic ties with other African countries.
- South Africa's Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie insists the anti-migrant protests target undocumented foreigners, but Itoro’s case challenges this narrative.
Itoro’s story highlights the human cost of xenophobia and the challenges faced by migrants, even those with legal status, in South Africa today.
