Nigerians living in South Africa have expressed frustration over delays in their planned return to Nigeria.
Many of them gathered at the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria, seeking answers about their repatriation.
The concerned citizens said the Federal Government had not provided a clear date for their evacuation.
Several of the returnees complained that authorities had failed to give them concrete information on when flights would be arranged.
Despite their concerns, the Nigerian High Commission assured them that repatriation plans remain active.
Officials explained that the process was temporarily suspended because of operational challenges.
Nigeria’s Acting High Commissioner to South Africa, Alexander Ajayi, addressed the gathering of worried nationals.
He assured them that efforts were ongoing to ensure citizens willing to return home are assisted.
The situation comes as South Africa approaches a June 30 deadline that has intensified discussions around immigration.
South African police have announced stronger security deployments across the country ahead of the June 30 deadline.
The date was set by fringe groups campaigning against illegal immigration.
Authorities said the deployment aims to maintain public order and protect key locations nationwide.
South Africa has experienced weeks of tension marked by xenophobic unrest.
The unrest has reportedly claimed at least two lives and heightened fears among migrant communities.
Some organised groups have demanded that undocumented foreigners leave the country before June 30.
Although the ultimatum has attracted attention, it carries no legal authority.
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said security agencies have increased their operational readiness.
“The South African Police Service has elevated its operational readiness across all provinces, with comprehensive deployment plans in place to protect communities, critical infrastructure and key public spaces,” he said.
Cachalia acknowledged citizens’ right to peaceful protest.
However, he warned that unlawful actions would not be tolerated.
“Criminality, intimidation, violence, the destruction of property and any attempt to undermine public safety will not be tolerated,” he stated.
Defence Minister Angie Motshekga said the military would secure strategic facilities across the country.
She noted that airports and other critical locations would receive additional protection.
According to her, the military remains ready to support police operations if required.
South Africa continued to battle unemployment levels above 30 per cent.
The country also has a history of anti-foreigner violence, often linked to claims that migrants take jobs and contribute to crime.
Previous outbreaks have resulted in significant loss of lives.
In 2008, riots claimed 62 lives, while similar incidents occurred in 2015 and 2016.
Violence in 2019 targeted foreign-owned businesses around Johannesburg.
At least 12 people died during the attacks, including 10 South African citizens.
The latest tensions are unfolding ahead of local government elections scheduled for November 4.
