CCN Condemns Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa, Supports AMC’s Call for Action

By The Revd Uruakpa Onyemaechi Charles
CCN News Correspondent, Abuja

ABUJA, Nigeria | July 17, 2026 — The Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) has strongly condemned the recent xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks on migrants and other African nationals in South Africa, describing the violence as an assault on human dignity, African unity, and the values of peaceful coexistence.

In a press statement issued by the National President of the Christian Council of Nigeria, His Grace, Most Revd. Dr. David Onuoha, the Council expressed solidarity with the Africa Methodist Council (AMC) and the Fellowship of Christian Councils and Churches in West Africa (FECCIWA) in calling for an immediate end to the attacks and renewed efforts to protect the lives and rights of all Africans living across the continent.

The CCN President described the recurring attacks on fellow Africans in South Africa as unacceptable, stressing that no individual should be subjected to violence, discrimination, or intimidation because of nationality or ethnic origin.

“Our shared humanity must always be stronger than our differences,” Most Revd. Dr. Onuoha said. “Every African deserves to live in safety, dignity, and peace. Violence and hatred can never be justified as solutions to economic or social challenges.”

He urged the Government of South Africa and its security agencies to take decisive steps to protect all residents and ensure that those responsible for the attacks are brought to justice.

The Council also called on the African Union (AU), regional bodies, governments, churches, and civil society organisations to work together in promoting peace, tolerance, justice, and the ideals of Pan-African solidarity.

Expressing sympathy to the victims and their families, the CCN President prayed for God’s healing, comfort, and protection over those affected. He further encouraged churches across Africa to remain steadfast in prayer while actively promoting reconciliation, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence among all people.

Reaffirming the Council’s commitment to justice, peace, and human dignity, Most Revd. Dr. Onuoha urged African leaders and citizens to reject every form of xenophobia and Afrophobia, emphasizing that Africa’s strength lies in its unity and shared destiny.

The Christian Council of Nigeria also pledged its support for the Africa Methodist Council’s advocacy against xenophobic violence and called on all stakeholders to take urgent and coordinated action to prevent further attacks and foster lasting peace across the continent.

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