The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has issued an urgent safety advisory to Nigerian citizens living in South Africa following a wave of violent anti-foreigner demonstrations that have swept through several major provinces. The commission warned that the unrest, which has already resulted in widespread looting and property destruction, is expected to intensify in the coming days, particularly in Gauteng Province.
According to a circular issued by the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg, identified as Ref No: CGJHB/AD/209/VOL I, the current security situation has deteriorated in cities including Cape Town, Durban, and East London. Security reports indicate that these demonstrations have shifted from organised protests to volatile riots, leading to significant injuries and the targeting of foreign-owned assets.
The head of NiDCOM’s Media, Public Relations, and Protocols Unit, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, emphasised the necessity of maintaining a low profile during this period of heightened tension. He urged Nigerians to prioritise their personal safety by avoiding any form of engagement with demonstration groups and staying away from areas known for civil gathered.
"Avoid any confrontation with protesters, refrain from engaging with demonstration groups, and monitor local media outlets for real-time safety information," Balogun stated in the official commission release. He further stressed that all Nigerian nationals must remain law-abiding while navigating the crisis.
The advisory specifically highlights the upcoming period between April 27 and April 29 as a window of extreme risk. With South Africa observing Freedom Day on April 27, officials fear that the public holiday could serve as a catalyst for further mobilisation. Consequently, the Nigerian government has advised entrepreneurs to shut down their businesses on the holiday and remain closed through the following Tuesday and Wednesday to prevent being targeted by looters.
Consul-General Ninikanwa Okey-Uche confirmed that the consulate in Johannesburg remains operational and is actively coordinating with South African law enforcement to secure the lives of Nigerians. Diplomatic efforts are also underway at the ministerial level, with Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Onoh, engaging directly with South African authorities.
Nigerians in the affected regions are encouraged to maintain contact with the consulate and adhere strictly to the guidelines provided until the security situation stabilises.