Nigerian Authorities Issue Strict Warning Against Retaliatory Violence Targeting South Africans

Nigerian law enforcement agencies have issued a stern warning to citizens, urging them to refrain from any retaliatory actions against South African nationals or commercial enterprises. This directive comes in the wake of anti-migrant demonstrations in South Africa, which have sparked fears of reprisals. Police officials explicitly advised Nigerians against taking justice into their own hands, responding to claims of assaults on Nigerians residing in South Africa. However, no such incidents have been officially verified. The caution was issued following a consultation among top security and intelligence officials.

While the South African government has condemned "criminal acts" targeting foreign residents, its police force has not confirmed any specific attacks on non-citizens. Meanwhile, tensions have escalated in South Africa over recent weeks, driven by protests demanding stricter measures against undocumented migrants. In response to the volatile situation, several African nations have urged their citizens to exercise caution; Ghana, for instance, recently evacuated hundreds of its citizens due to safety fears.

Aliyu Giwa, a senior spokesperson for the Nigerian Police Force, addressed the sentiment on the social media platform X. "We recognise the pain and anger caused by recent attacks on Nigerians abroad," Giwa stated. "As an institution dedicated to protecting Nigerian lives, we understand these concerns deeply." He emphasized the need for composure, stating, "However, this is a time for calm and restraint." Giwa added that resorting to violence would not safeguard Nigerians overseas and would instead "create additional crises."

Giwa’s post included an official statement from the police force, noting that the government is handling the issue "at the highest levels." To ensure security, additional protective measures have been deployed around diplomatic missions, critical infrastructure, and other sensitive sites within Nigeria. The police declared that any effort to harm South African citizens, attack diplomatic premises, or damage businesses and other lawful interests would be prosecuted as a criminal offense.

The unrest in South Africa stems from accusations by protesters that undocumented migrants are straining public services and contributing to criminal activity. These demonstrators, organized under the banner "March and March," are advocating for immigration reform and have demanded that undocumented migrants depart the country by June 30. History shows that previous waves of xenophobic violence in South Africa have previously led to diplomatic friction, resulting in retaliatory incidents in Nigeria, including the vandalism and looting of South African-owned businesses.

Source: BBC News Generated at: 2026-06-01 10:02:49 UTC