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Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa Threaten Business in Nigeria

Timothy Obiezu

   ABUJA - The recent surge of deadly xenophobic attacks in South Africa
   is triggering concern in several African countries. The deaths have
   sparked reprisal attacks and calls for an end to the operation of South
   African businesses in Nigeria. But tens of thousands of Nigerian jobs
   could be at stake.

   Days after reprisal attacks on South African-owned businesses in the
   Nigerian capital, it's not business as usual for Moses Iyuagba.

   His corner shop business near Abuja has been spared. But, Iyuagba says
   he is still worried after angry protesters raided the offices of South
   African communications giant MTN and its affiliate, Shoprite, halting
   operations.

   "It's like four days now I've not been to the office. Presently as I'm
   speaking with you people, my stock is going down," Iyuagba said.

   This is not the first time xenophobic attacks on Nigerian nationals in
   South Africa have triggered reprisals.

   Similar incidents happened after attacks in South Africa killed 62
   people in 2008 and seven more in 2015.

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