Why are Nigeria-South Africa tensions rising amid xenophobic attacks?

Diplomatic tensions between Nigeria and South Africa are escalating after Abuja began repatriating hundreds of Nigerians this week amid violent anti-immigration protests. Nigerian Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu accused South Africa of failing to denounce attacks on Nigerian nationals, saying this damaged the bond forged during Nigeria’s support for the anti-apartheid struggle. At least two Nigerian men died in April, including one beaten by South African soldiers. Odumegwu-Ojukwu said Nigerians with legal status are being harassed, businesses looted, and children kept from school, adding: “The police refused to do anything.” South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced new measures to tackle irregular migration in a national address on Sunday. At least 1,000 Nigerians were initially scheduled for repatriation, but that number is rising. Nigeria has threatened retaliatory measures.