The Federal Government has urged Nigerians living in South Africa to exercise caution amid fresh anti-foreigner protests scheduled in parts of the country, following reports of violence, looting and attacks linked to recent demonstrations.
The warning was contained in an advisory issued by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, led by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, citing an official circular from the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg.
According to the advisory, protests in parts of East London, Cape Town, Durban and KwaZulu-Natal have reportedly turned violent, resulting in looting, destruction of property and injuries.
NiDCOM said intelligence contained in the consular circular indicated further demonstrations are expected in Gauteng Province, with protesters allegedly planning to pressure the South African government over the presence of foreign nationals.
“Nigerian citizens should avoid any confrontation with protesters, refrain from engaging demonstration groups and monitor local media outlets for real-time safety information,” the advisory stated.
The commission also urged Nigerians in the country to remain law-abiding and vigilant as tensions rise.
The Federal Government advised Nigerian business owners in affected areas to take precautionary steps, including temporarily shutting down businesses during periods of unrest, noting that foreign-owned businesses are often targets during anti-immigrant violence.
NiDCOM endorsed the position of Nigeria’s Consul-General in Johannesburg, Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, stating the mission remains fully operational and is working closely with South African security authorities to ensure the protection of Nigerians.
The commission said the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu, is also engaging South African authorities over the development.
“The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg remains fully operational and is actively coordinating with South African police authorities for the safety of Nigerian nationals,” the statement added.
The advisory follows viral social media videos showing groups confronting, and in some cases assaulting, African immigrants while demanding they leave the country — developments that have heightened fears among foreign nationals.
The Federal Government urged Nigerians in South Africa to remain alert, avoid protest zones and stay in touch with the Nigerian mission for updates and assistance.
