Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has petitioned the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights over renewed xenophobic violence and alleged abuses against Nigerians and other African migrants in South Africa.

In the petition, Falana accused South African authorities of failing to stop repeated attacks, killings, harassment, looting, and intimidation targeting foreign nationals across cities including Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, and Pretoria.

He argued that the violence has become systemic rather than isolated, citing recent cases involving two Nigerians who reportedly died after encounters with South African security personnel.

Falana also referenced viral videos showing African migrants being assaulted and threatened by mobs demanding foreigners leave the country, warning that the atmosphere of hostility has left many migrants living in fear.

According to him, over 130 Nigerians have already requested evacuation from South Africa amid growing insecurity and fears of further attacks.

The senior advocate urged the African Commission to investigate the incidents, declare South Africa in violation of the African Charter, and refer the matter to the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights for binding action.

He further called for compensation for victims, stronger protections for foreign nationals, prosecution of perpetrators, and reforms aimed at ending what he described as a dangerous climate of impunity and anti-foreigner violence.