By Uzoma Akobundu
Shoprite outlets in Nigeria are at the risk of attack if the ongoing xenophobic treatment meted to Nigerians in South Africa are not dealt with urgently.
Many Nigerians are already calling for vengeance on South African companies in Nigeria as a result of the ill treatment our kits and kin are getting in South Africa.
A test of what to come was experienced on Tuesday, September 3, along the Lekki-Epe Expressway in Lagos when a Shoprite outlet was been partially shut down by angry protesters, who stormed the place seeking for reprisal.
Saharareporters said the protesters, largely made up of young Nigerians, chanted songs of solidarity as they made their way into the place and eventually disrupted activities.
Despite the presence of heavily-armed security personnel, the angry mob ensured that they created tension at the place.
Their action follows ongoing attacks on Nigerians and other African migrants in South Africa since August 28.
The situation has led to loss of lives and businesses belonging to Nigerians in South Africa, raising fears of more disaster in the coming days.
The latest xenophobic attacks have been condemned by Nigerians across the globe with many calling for reprisal attacks in Nigeria where several South African businesses have continued to flourish.
On Tuesday, the federal government had to summon the South African envoy to a crucial meeting while President Muhammadu Buhari despatched another special envoy to Pretoria to see President Cyril Ramaphosa and obtain commitment that Nigerians in his country are safe in his hands.