By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Correspondent
HEATED TENSIONS linked to anti-foreigner demonstrations also known as xenophobic attacks, have prompted Nigeria’s Federal Government to caution its citizens living in South Africa to remain vigilant ahead of further planned protests.
JKNewsMedia.com reports that an advisory issued on Friday by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) stated that the warning followed an official circular from the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg, referenced CGJHB AD 209 VOL I and dated April 22, 2026.
The circular reported that demonstrations in East London, Cape Town, Durban and KwaZulu Natal had turned violent, resulting in looting, property damage and injuries.
NiDCOM statement urged Nigerians in South Africa to comply with the consulate’s advisory, noting reports of escalating protests across the country.
It also referenced several viral videos circulating on social media showing groups confronting and, in some cases, assaulting African immigrants while demanding their exit.
Intelligence contained in the consulate’s circular indicated that further protests are scheduled in Gauteng Province between April 27 and 29, 2026, with demonstrators intending to pressure the South African government over the presence of foreign nationals.
In response, the commission advised Nigerian citizens to avoid confrontation with protesters, refrain from engaging with demonstration groups and monitor local media outlets for real time safety updates.
Nigerians were also urged to remain law abiding at all times.
The advisory further recommended that Nigerian business owners protect their businesses by closing on Freedom Day on April 27 and consider remaining closed on April 28 and 29, noting that foreign owned businesses are often targeted during unrest.
JKNewsMedia.com also reports that the commission stated that it fully endorses the position of the Consul General, Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey Uche, and noted that the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg remains operational while coordinating with South African police authorities to ensure the protection of Nigerian nationals.
It added that the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, is already engaging with the South African Minister of Foreign Affairs amid concerns mounting over the safety of Nigerians and other African nationals.
—
Do you have a news tip for JKNewsMedia.com? Please copy and email us at jkmediapress@gmail.com.
