Internet users have shared their reactions and opinions after activist Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma spoke about a traumatic experience from her childhood which she says continues to shape her views today.
Also see: Jacinta Ngobese voices concerns about foreign nationals in South Africa
In a widely shared clip, Ngobese-Zuma recounted how her mother allegedly discovered through the Department of Home Affairs that she had been registered as married to a Nigerian man she had never met.
According to Ngobese-Zuma, the revelation created significant challenges for her family and affected their identities and legal documentation.
The activist said witnessing her mother’s distress left a lasting impact on her as a teenager, describing the incident as a source of personal trauma.
“Maybe I could be still bitter about that. Who knows? But at the end of the day, it’s what’s driving me to make sure that we never have to go through this nonsense again. Our kids never have to go through this nonsense again,” she said.
Also see: Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma shares emotional message after Vuma FM contract termination
Social media divided over the claims
The comments quickly sparked debate online, with many users expressing sympathy for the family’s alleged experience. Others argued that while individual cases of fraud should be condemned, they should not be used to paint entire communities with the same brush.
“We need to clean up our country and fight against illegal foreigners. They really must go home back to their countries,” said one user.
“This story is cooked. It’s impossible for someone to get married to someone they don’t know, have their surname etc. fight your fight, but stop making up stories to justify your actions,” said another.
Speaking up against the use of a blanket approach, one X user commented, “The problem I’m having with Jacinta is that she generalizes all Nigerians, including the legal documented immigrants. Come to think of the “…bring more Pakistanis, Bangladeshis…” I wonder whats the job of our BMA if immigrants bring in “more Bangladeshis”. Our government is failing us, now the innocent documented immigrants become subjected to xenophobia.”
“People who have never suffered from identity theft will not relate to this. My aunt also went through this. That is why I never ever use Nigeria printing stores. You print out stuff they keep copy you don’t know what they do with that information. Please be safe guys,” cautioned one more.
A conversation beyond one story
The discussion has once again highlighted South Africa’s ongoing conversations around immigration, identity fraud and social cohesion. While some users focused on the emotional impact of the story, others called for greater attention to systemic issues, including document fraud and the protection of vulnerable citizens.
As the debate continues online, Ngobese-Zuma’s comments have reignited broader discussions about immigration policy, personal experiences and the role that trauma can play in shaping public viewpoints.
Also see: Who funds March and March? Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma provides answers
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