Envoy Trashes Romantic Myth Behind SA Xenophobia Tensions

​The South African Consul-General to Nigeria, Prof. Bobby Moroe, has forcefully dismissed widespread claims that attacks and tensions involving Nigerians in South Africa are driven by romantic rivalries over South African women.

​Speaking across multiple high-profile engagements reported by Punch and ThisDay, the envoy rejected the narrative, emphasizing that personal relationships cross international borders naturally under constitutional democracies. He noted that cross-cultural romance strengthens continental bonds rather than fueling hostility, adding that South African men equally appreciate foreign partners.

​Addressing the core drivers of civic friction during interactions covered by ThisDay, Moroe explained that localized tensions stem from compliance with immigration laws and undocumented residency concerns rather than nationality or xenophobic hatred. He noted that vigilante groups taking laws into their own hands do not represent the soul of South Africa, stressing that regular and irregular migrants are protected under the nation’s constitution, leaving immigration management strictly to competent state authorities.

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​The diplomat also addressed misleading reports regarding extrajudicial killings, citing a recent incident in Cape Town where a Nigerian national unfortunately died from severe complications after swallowing illicit substances to evade police arrest, a tragedy that was incorrectly sensationalized as extrajudicial violence.

​Highlighting historical solidarity, Moroe reflected on the 32 years of unbroken diplomatic ties built on sacrifice, noting that Nigeria stood firmly with South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle. He called for mutual healing, regional reconciliation, and shared responsibility under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to build economic opportunities and eliminate poverty for the continent’s youth.