The first to apply to a new scheme to repatriate citizens launched by Nigeria’s government, Odumegwu-Ojukwu said on Sunday, amid fears that confrontations in SA could escalate.

Protesters held rallies in Pretoria and Johannesburg ​last week, demanding tougher action against illegal immigration, saying undocumented foreign nationals were putting pressure on jobs, security ​and public services.

Campaigners for migrant rights say foreigners ​have long been scapegoated in SA for its economic ‌woes.

SA last month promised to crack down on anyone carrying out xenophobic attacks after Ghana and other African countries reported that their nationals had ​faced violence ​and discrimination.

More ⁠protests were planned on May 4 and May 8 and Nigeria ​would be watching developments closely, the ​government ⁠said.

It had already summoned SA’s High Commissioner in Abuja over the situation, and its diplomatic ⁠missions ​in SA are working ​with local authorities to reduce risks to Nigerians, the Minister ​said.

–Reuters–