Nigerian Business Owners Allege Illegal Raid by South African Officials

The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) has raised concerns over an alleged illegal raid on Nigerian-owned businesses during a by-law enforcement operation at the Navy House, Fatima Building, in Pretoria Central.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by NUSA’s National Publicity Secretary, Akindele Olunloyo, the union claimed that the operation, carried out on January 17, 2025, involved officials from multiple South African government agencies, including the Department of Home Affairs, the South African Police Service, Metro Police, City of Tshwane authorities, and Gauteng traffic officers. The operation was reportedly part of the “Reclaim Our City” enforcement initiative.

NUSA President, Smart Nwobi, was alerted by Nigerian business owners who reported widespread property damage and asset seizures during the raid. According to the affected business owners, items confiscated included Brazilian hair extensions, professional salon equipment, electronics such as TVs and microwaves, beverages, and large sums of money.

NUSA responded promptly by dispatching key executives to the scene to assess the situation and engage with the affected individuals. The business owners described the incident as a systematic targeting of their assets, leaving many of them without vital equipment needed to sustain their operations.

The union expressed strong disapproval of the operation, which they believe was unfairly executed against Nigerian entrepreneurs, and called for an immediate investigation into the conduct of the enforcement teams involved.

This incident adds to longstanding tensions surrounding the treatment of Nigerian nationals in South Africa, with NUSA urging diplomatic channels to address the matter and protect the rights of Nigerian citizens in the country.