The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has urged Nigerians residing in South Africa to temporarily shut down their businesses and avoid confrontations following a surge in xenophobic violence in parts of the country.
The advisory comes against the backdrop of escalating anti-foreigner protests, during which demonstrators have reportedly targeted foreign-owned businesses and demanded the expulsion of non-nationals. Tensions have been heightened by viral videos circulating online, including footage showing a Nigerian clothing trader being confronted and ordered to vacate the country by a group of South African men.
In a statement issued on Friday, NiDCOM said its directive was based on a security advisory from the Nigerian Consulate-General in Johannesburg earlier in the week. The commission noted that protests in East London, Cape Town, Durban, and KwaZulu-Natal have turned violent, resulting in looting, property destruction, and injuries.
According to the commission, intelligence reports indicate that additional protests are planned in Gauteng province between April 27 and 29. Protesters are expected to use the demonstrations to pressure authorities over the presence of foreign nationals in the country.
NiDCOM advised Nigerians to steer clear of protest areas, avoid engaging with demonstrators, and closely monitor local media for updates on the evolving security situation. Business owners, in particular, were urged to close their shops on April 27, which coincides with Freedom Day in South Africa, and to consider remaining closed through April 29, given the heightened risk to foreign-owned enterprises during periods of unrest.
The commission reaffirmed its support for the Nigerian Consulate-General in Johannesburg, led by Ninikanwa O. Okey-Uche, noting that the mission remains operational and is working with South African security agencies to safeguard Nigerian nationals.
NiDCOM also disclosed that Bianca Onoh is engaging with South African authorities as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the situation.
