Lock Up and Lie Low: Nigeria Warns Citizens as Anti-Foreigner Violence Flares in South Africa

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

Lock Up and Lie Low: Nigeria Warns Citizens as Anti-Foreigner Violence Flares in South Africa

Nigerians living in South Africa have been urged to take extra precautions following a fresh wave of xenophobic unrest in parts of the country.

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) issued the warning as anti-foreigner demonstrations escalated, with reports of violence, looting, and attacks on businesses owned by foreign nationals.

According to the commission, the alert followed a security advisory from the Nigerian Consulate-General in Johannesburg.

The unrest has already affected several cities, including East London, Cape Town, Durban, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal, where tensions have spilled into the streets.

Authorities say some of the protests have turned chaotic, leaving a trail of damaged property and injured victims in their wake. The atmosphere, once tense, now feels like a powder keg waiting for a spark.

NiDCOM disclosed that intelligence reports point to another round of demonstrations scheduled to take place in Gauteng Province between April 27 and April 29.

Protesters are reportedly seeking stronger action from the South African government over the presence of foreign nationals.

In light of the situation, Nigerians have been strongly advised to avoid protest locations, stay away from large gatherings, and keep a close eye on local news and security updates.

Business owners, in particular, have been encouraged to temporarily shut down their shops on April 27, South Africa’s Freedom Day.

They are also advised to consider extending the closure through April 28 and 29, as foreign-owned businesses often become easy targets during such outbreaks.

NiDCOM reaffirmed its support for the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg, led by Consul-General Ninikanwa O. Okey-Uche, noting that the mission remains fully operational and is working closely with South African law enforcement agencies to safeguard Nigerian lives and property.

The commission also revealed that Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu, is actively engaging South African authorities as diplomatic efforts intensify.

For many Nigerians in South Africa, this is another grim reminder that when tensions rise, caution is not just advisable—it is essential.

About The Author

Chioma Ndukwu

See author's posts