Richard Itoro had no option but to leave South Africa; staying in the country could have cost him his life.
Richard Itoro South Africa xenophobia, According to the 47-year-old Nigerian, he left the country due to the increasing xenophobic attacks, several death threats, and destruction of the life he had worked hard to build. The fleeing man was forced to abandon his South African wife and twin children.
This is just one of the many stories portraying the human face of the growing anti-immigrant sentiments in South Africa, where foreigners have been threatened, attacked, and their businesses destroyed.
A Long Time Building Has All Come Tumbling Down
Like any migrant, Itoro made his way to South Africa in the hope of finding a better life for himself.
However, after building up his business, relationships, and a family, he found the growing anti-foreigner atmosphere too hard to endure.
As reported by returnees, migrants received a message to get out of their communities before they got beaten up or killed. In addition, they saw others being attacked and heard about migrant-owned businesses being vandalized or burned down due to unrest.
Finally, Itoro realized that he either had to abandon everything he built and stay away from danger or die staying.
Why Xenophobia Keeps Growing
There have been repeated cases of xenophobic attacks in South Africa during the past twenty years.
Most xenophobic attacks occurred due to anger against unemployment, poverty, and lack of opportunities. Foreigners were accused of taking jobs, running businesses, and adding to the difficulties without any evidence provided.
This tension periodically exploded into violence, with migrants’ businesses being looted, homes getting vandalized, and communities running away.
Despite the repeated condemnation of xenophobic acts by South African officials, more measures should be taken.
The Family Left Behind
Possibly the most sorrowful aspect of Itoro’s case is the family he left behind.
Itoro left behind his wife and twin children upon his return to Nigeria.
Cases like his have been more prevalent among the migrants who engaged in voluntary repatriation processes. Mixed-nationality families were often caught up in legal and logistical issues, and financial difficulties made moving an entire household difficult.
In some cases, the migrants’ spouses decided to stay back in South Africa, while some others simply could not afford to support their families once they returned home.
For most of these migrants, fleeing violence had meant prolonged separation from loved ones.
A Second Chance at Nothing
Going back to Nigeria did not guarantee stability for any of the migrants.
Most of them arrived with nothing after leaving behind their businesses, property, cars, and all their years of investment.
Some received transport and other forms of reintegration assistance from the government agencies responsible for the diaspora community, but rebuilding their lives is still a hard task.
For those who used to own businesses, finding jobs and relying on their relatives is the only choice they now have.
A Wider Humanitarian and Diplomatic Challenge – Richard Itoro South Africa xenophobia
The cases of migrants such as Itoro have reignited debates about migration, cooperation within the region, and the protection of foreigners in Africa.
Xenophobic acts have, moreover, put a strain on diplomatic relations between South Africa and other African countries such as Nigeria and Ghana, where the governments have continuously demanded more protection for their citizens in foreign lands.
According to observers, a solution to this problem would entail dealing not only with the economic frustrations fueling xenophobia but also with law enforcement of those committing the violence.
For the families directly involved, however, this debate has taken on a personal dimension.
As far as Richard Itoro is concerned, fleeing from South Africa has indeed been the difference between life and death, but at what price? He was forced to leave his loved ones behind.
More Stories You Shouldn’t Miss
What drives Lagos fintech billions growth?
Explore why Lagos fintech startups are attracting massive global investments and shaping Africa’s financial future.
Which mobile wallets rival M-Pesa Africa?
Discover the top M-Pesa alternatives leading Africa’s mobile wallet wars in 2026 and beyond.
How FLEX zero fee payments impact?
Check how FLEX is transforming Nigeria’s mobile payments with zero fees and disrupting traditional systems.
Which African businesses deliver highest profits?
Explore the most profitable business opportunities across Africa for entrepreneurs and investors today.
Who are South Africa’s youngest entrepreneurs?
Discover the top young entrepreneurs in South Africa making waves and redefining success early.
