Three Nigerian nationals denied entry at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport have been cleared and returned to Lagos following diplomatic intervention, authorities in both countries confirmed on Monday.

The incident occurred on Sunday when one of the travellers, a media personality identified as Yemi (@YemiFirstson or Just_Yemi), posted on social media claiming he and three other Nigerians had been “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 book an immediate return flight. In subsequent posts, Yemi said he felt unsafe and urged authorities to allow their prompt return.

South African immigration authorities issued a statement titled “Decisive Enforcement of Immigration Laws,” noting the individuals had departed South Africa and returned to Nigeria.

The statement 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.

“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.

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) confirmed the resolution, stating the nationals were expected to arrive in Lagos on Monday morning. The commission noted that the incident often stems from over-reliance on unregulated visa agents who may fill in sections of applications without travellers’ full knowledge.

“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 directly or through licensed agents, personally review every detail, carry supporting evidence, and remain mindful of their digital footprint. “Derogatory or inflammatory posts about other countries can lead to secondary screening or visa denial,” it warned. NIDCOM also thanked the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa for its prompt intervention.

Reports indicate the group had intended to visit South Africa for the Easter period with valid tourist visas. During secondary inspection at OR Tambo, officials identified issues the travellers could not adequately explain. The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority confirmed that the matter was an immigration issue and supported arrangements for their return.

South African law grants border officials discretion to refuse entry when travellers cannot justify their purpose of visit or are deemed a potential risk. NIDCOM emphasised that proper preparation protects both travellers and Nigeria’s international reputation, urging due diligence and respectful online conduct.

The incident follows similar cases involving Nigerians, often linked to documentation inconsistencies or prior negative online commentary. (Guardian)