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In 1977, a group of approximately 20 South African students, many of whom were leaders of the 1976 Soweto Uprising (including Tsietsi Mashinini), were sent to study at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria on scholarships provided by the Nigerian government.
While Nigeria was a major financial and diplomatic supporter of the anti-apartheid movement, this specific group of students faced significant local hostility.
The Attack: Roughly two months after their arrival, a South African student identified as Joel was attacked with acid poured on his face. He died from his injuries a few days later.
The Motive: Local Nigerian students staged protests against the South African group, reportedly claiming the visitors would "take their jobs and women".
Aftermath: Following the attack and the death of their comrade, the group of students was recalled back to the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom College (SOMAFCO) in Tanzania.
Disappearance of Tsietsi Mashinini: It was during this period in Nigeria that Tsietsi Mashinini, a primary leader of the June 16 uprising, reportedly disappeared or went into hiding, with his whereabouts remaining a subject of historical debate.
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