Nigerian police have warned people not to carry out retaliatory attacks against South Africans or South African-owned businesses after a surge in anti-migrant protests in South Africa.
The warning came after reports and fears that Nigerians living in South Africa could face hostility. While South African police have not confirmed any direct attacks on Nigerians, tensions have increased recently. Many protests have taken place in South Africa. Demonstrators are demanding stronger action against undocumented migrants.
Some groups claim that illegal immigration is putting pressure on jobs, housing, healthcare, and other public services. Others also blame migrants for rising crime, although these claims remain controversial. Because of the growing tension, several African countries have advised their citizens in South Africa to be careful. Ghana recently helped hundreds of its nationals leave the country due to safety concerns.
A spokesperson for the Nigerian police said the government understands the worries and frustration felt by many Nigerians. However, officials stressed that violence is not an answer. Citizens were urged to stay calm and let the government deal with the matter through diplomatic talks.
Police also said security has been increased around foreign embassies, important government buildings, and other sensitive locations across Nigeria. They cautioned that any attacks on South African citizens, businesses, or diplomatic offices would constitute a criminal offence. One of the groups behind the protests in South Africa is called March and March.
The organization says it is pushing immigration reform. It has called on undocumented migrants to leave the country before the end of June. South Africa has experienced outbreaks of xenophobic violence in the past. Those incidents damaged relations with other African countries, including Nigeria.
During the previous tensions, some South African-owned businesses in Nigeria were attacked, looted, and vandalised. Officials on both sides are hoping to avoid a repeat of those events. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are encouraging people to remain calm while governments work toward a peaceful solution.
