The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has warned Nigerians living in South Africa to remain cautious following a rise in violent anti-foreigner protests in parts of the country.
The advisory followed a communication from the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg, which reported that protests in East London, Cape Town, Durban and other areas of KwaZulu-Natal had turned violent, leading to looting, destruction of property and injuries.
According to the consulate’s circular dated April 22, more demonstrations are expected in Gauteng Province between April 27 and 29 as protesters increase pressure on the South African government over the presence of foreign nationals.
NiDCOM advised Nigerians to avoid protest locations, stay away from confrontations and keep up with updates from local media for timely information.
The commission also urged Nigerians to remain law-abiding during the period of unrest.
Business owners were specifically advised to close their shops on Freedom Day, April 27, and consider keeping them shut until April 29, noting that foreign-owned businesses are often targeted during such disturbances.
NiDCOM also backed the position of Nigeria’s Consul-General in Johannesburg, Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, stating that the consulate remains open and is working with South African security agencies to protect Nigerian citizens.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, is engaging with South African authorities through diplomatic channels to address the situation and ensure the safety of Nigerians.
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad and urged them to remain vigilant as events continue to unfold.