Nigeria has issued a fresh warning to its citizens living in South Africa after a wave of anti-foreigner protests escalated into violence across several cities, prompting fears of further unrest.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) said Nigerians should exercise extreme caution following reports from the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg of looting, property destruction and injuries linked to demonstrations in East London, Cape Town, Durban and parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
In an advisory issued after a consular circular dated 22 April, the commission warned that additional protests are expected in Gauteng province between 27 and 29 April, as demonstrators intensify pressure on authorities over the presence of foreign nationals.
NiDCOM urged Nigerians to avoid protest areas, refrain from confrontations and closely monitor local media for updates, stressing the need to remain law-abiding during the period of unrest.
Particular concern has centred on Nigerian-owned businesses, which are often targeted during such disturbances. The commission advised business owners to shut operations on Freedom Day and consider extending closures through 29 April to minimise risk.
The agency also backed the position of Nigeria’s consul-general in Johannesburg, Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, noting that the mission remains operational and is liaising with South African security agencies to protect Nigerian nationals.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts are under way, with Nigeria’s minister of state for foreign affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said to be engaging her South African counterpart in a bid to contain the situation and ensure the safety of Nigerians.
NiDCOM said it remained committed to the welfare of citizens abroad, urging continued vigilance as tensions simmer in Africa’s most industrialised economy.
