South African returnee Okechukwu Maduka has recounted the violence and hostility he said he experienced during his years in South Africa, alleging that many Nigerians face life-threatening attacks regardless of their success or struggles.
Maduka shared his experience during an interview on Vanguard News TV, after returning to Nigeria. His remarks come amid growing concerns over the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa, as more returnees continue to recount stories of violent attacks, xenophobia and insecurity.
Reflecting on his time in the country, Maduka said he relocated to South Africa more than two decades ago with hopes of building a better life. However, he claimed that foreigners often become targets of violence and discrimination.
“I went to South Africa 10 June 1999. If you make it, they will kill you, if you don’t make it, their women will laugh at you. A lot of people are dying there. I’ve been a victim, they shot me on my head, hand and leg,” he said.
According to Maduka, surviving the shooting remains one of the most painful experiences of his life. He said the attack left him with injuries to his head, hand and leg, adding that many other Nigerians have not been as fortunate because they lost their lives in similar incidents.
The returnee alleged that the environment had become increasingly unsafe for foreigners, claiming that many Nigerians lived in constant fear of attacks. He said the violence had discouraged many migrants from pursuing their dreams despite years of hard work and sacrifice…See More
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