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Police caution Nigerians amid rising tensions
Nigerian authorities have urged citizens to avoid retaliatory violence against South African nationals or businesses, following reports of unrest targeting migrants in South Africa. While no confirmed attacks on Nigerians have been documented, security chiefs held an emergency meeting to address growing concerns.
Background: Protests fuel migrant tensions
South Africa has seen a surge in demonstrations demanding stricter measures against undocumented migrants. Protesters accuse migrants of straining public services and contributing to crime. The group March and March has led calls for immigration reforms, setting a 30 June deadline for undocumented migrants to leave the country.
Official response: Restraint and security measures
Aliyu Giwa, a senior Nigerian police spokesperson, acknowledged public anger over reports of attacks on Nigerians abroad but stressed the need for calm. "Violence will not protect our citizens overseas and risks creating further crises," he stated in a post on X.
The Nigerian government has escalated the issue to high-level diplomatic channels and deployed additional security around foreign missions, infrastructure, and sensitive sites. Authorities warned that any attacks on South African nationals, businesses, or diplomatic facilities would be treated as criminal offenses.
Regional fallout: Evacuations and advisories
Several African nations, including Ghana, have issued warnings to their citizens in South Africa. Ghana recently evacuated hundreds of its nationals, citing safety concerns. Past xenophobic violence in South Africa has sparked diplomatic disputes and retaliatory incidents, including vandalism of South African-owned businesses in Nigeria.
South African government denies confirmed attacks
While South African police have not verified any attacks on foreigners, the government has condemned "criminal acts" targeting foreign nationals. Tensions remain high as protests continue, with demonstrators demanding stronger immigration enforcement.
"We recognise the pain and anger caused by recent attacks on Nigerians abroad. As an institution dedicated to protecting Nigerian lives, we understand these concerns deeply. However, this is a time for calm and restraint."
Aliyu Giwa, Nigerian Police Spokesperson
