A Nigerian human rights activist, Francis Nwapa, has called for South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, to be declared persona non grata across Africa over comments made in a viral video in which the minister allegedly threatened to deny medical oxygen to undocumented foreigners.
In a statement issued on Friday, June 19, 2026, titled “Blood For Profits: African Elites Are Sacrificing The Poor While Afrophobia Burns,” Nwapa described the remarks attributed to McKenzie as dangerous, dehumanising, and unworthy of a public official.
McKenzie had, in a viral video seen by SaharaReporters, said, “After we have been sworn in, I’m going straight to Rahima Moosa hospital, where we are going to switch off the oxygen of illegal foreigners. Abahambe!”
Nwapa said that hate-filled rhetoric directed at vulnerable groups has historically served as a precursor to violence and persecution.
“Words matter. Across history, hate speech and the demonisation of vulnerable populations have often preceded violence. Irrespective of immigration status, every human being is entitled to life, dignity, and protection under the law,” he said.
