South African authorities have deported three Nigerian nationals after denying them entry over what officials described as “insulting” social media posts, with the travellers subsequently returned to Lagos following diplomatic intervention.
This happened on Sunday at O. R. Tambo International Airport, with one of the travellers, a media personality identified as Yemi (@YemiFirstson or Just_Yemi), alleging in a series of posts that he and others were “unlawfully detained” despite holding valid visas and travel documents.
He alleged that officials singled them out, seized a phone, and initially refused their request to arrange an immediate return flight, adding in later posts that he felt unsafe and called for their prompt repatriation.
South African immigration authorities, in a statement titled “Decisive Enforcement of Immigration Laws,” confirmed that the individuals had departed the country and returned to Nigeria, outlining the reasons for their refusal of entry.
“In your specific case, prior online posts containing insulting remarks about the South African government had already placed you on the authorities’ watchlist. Your inability to adequately explain or substantiate those statements during processing further aggravated the situation,” the statement read in parts.
It advised future visitors to apply for visas through official channels or licensed agents, personally verify all information, and be prepared to substantiate details during interviews or secondary screening. Officials added that immigration authorities routinely review applicants’ social media profiles and warned that derogatory or inflammatory posts about South Africa or its government could lead to heightened scrutiny, entry refusal, or future bans.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) also confirmed the development, stating the affected nationals were expected back in Lagos on Monday morning.
“In this case, one individual had previously posted insulting remarks about the South African government online, which placed him on their watchlist,” NIDCOM said. “When confronted at the port of entry, he could not substantiate these statements, aggravating the situation.”
The commission advised Nigerian travellers to apply for visas through official channels or licensed agents, personally verify all application details, and carry supporting documentation when travelling. It also cautioned against the impact of online activity on immigration decisions.
“Derogatory or inflammatory posts about other countries can lead to secondary screening or visa denial,” it warned, while commending the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa for its intervention.
Reports indicate the group had planned to visit South Africa for the Easter period with valid tourist visas, but were flagged during secondary inspection at the airport over inconsistencies they could not adequately explain.
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority confirmed the matter was strictly an immigration issue and facilitated arrangements for their return.
Under South African law, border officials retain discretion to refuse entry to travellers unable to justify their visit or deemed a potential risk. NIDCOM emphasised that proper documentation, due diligence, and responsible online conduct are critical to avoiding such outcomes and safeguarding Nigeria’s international reputation.
Top Society reports that the latest incident follows similar cases involving Nigerians, often linked to documentation inconsistencies or prior negative online commentary.
