The Nigeria Police Force has cautioned citizens against carrying out retaliatory attacks on South African nationals, businesses, or diplomatic interests in Nigeria following growing concerns over anti-migrant protests in South Africa.
The warning comes amid reports of increasing tensions linked to demonstrations in South Africa calling for stricter immigration enforcement and action against undocumented migrants.
Although no confirmed attacks on Nigerians in South Africa have been officially reported, the police said the advisory followed discussions among security and intelligence chiefs over the situation.
South African authorities have also not confirmed any attacks on foreign nationals but have condemned what they described as “criminal acts” directed at migrants.
In a statement shared on X, senior police spokesperson Aliyu Giwa acknowledged the concerns of Nigerians while urging restraint.
“We recognise the pain and anger caused by recent attacks on Nigerians abroad,” Giwa said.
“As an institution dedicated to protecting Nigerian lives, we understand these concerns deeply,” he noted.
He, however, stressed the need for Nigerians to remain peaceful and allow the government to address the matter through diplomatic and security channels.
“However, this is a time for calm and restraint,” he said, adding that violence would not protect Nigerians abroad and “would only create additional crises”.
According to the police, the Federal Government is actively engaging with the situation.
The statement noted that the issue is being handled by authorities “at the highest levels”.
To prevent any breakdown of law and order, the police disclosed that additional security measures have been deployed around foreign missions, critical infrastructure, and other sensitive locations across the country.
The force warned that any attack targeting South African interests in Nigeria would attract legal consequences.
“Any attempt to target South African nationals, diplomatic facilities, businesses, or other lawful interests within Nigeria will be treated as a criminal act,” the police stated.
The tension stems from recent protests in South Africa, where demonstrators have accused undocumented migrants of placing pressure on public services and contributing to criminal activities. Protesters have called on the government to strengthen immigration controls and enforcement measures.
The demonstrations have largely been organised by a movement known as March and March, which advocates immigration reform and has reportedly called on undocumented migrants to leave South Africa before June 30.
The situation has also prompted concerns across the continent. Several African countries have advised their citizens in South Africa to remain vigilant, while Ghana recently evacuated hundreds of its nationals, citing safety concerns.
The development has revived memories of previous xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which strained diplomatic relations and triggered retaliatory actions in Nigeria, where some South African-owned businesses were vandalised and looted.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to maintaining public safety and urged citizens to remain law-abiding while the government continues diplomatic efforts to address concerns affecting Nigerians living abroad.
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