Police Warn Nigerians Against Reprisal Over Fresh South Africa Xenophobic Attacks

Police Warn Nigerians Against Reprisal Over Fresh South Africa Xenophobic Attacks

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a stern warning against any retaliatory attacks targeting South African nationals, businesses, diplomatic facilities, or investments in Nigeria, following renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa that have reportedly claimed the lives of at least two Nigerians.

In a statement released on Sunday, Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, said security agencies were closely monitoring developments after growing public anger over reports of fresh attacks on Nigerians in parts of South Africa.

According to him, while the concerns of Nigerians are understandable, the police will not tolerate any form of unlawful retaliation.

“While concerns about attacks on Nigerians in South Africa are understandable, the public is strongly advised not to take the law into their own hands,” Placid stated.

The police stressed that reprisal attacks, violence, hate speech, destruction of property, and any act capable of disrupting public peace or threatening national security remain criminal offences under Nigerian law.

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The statement reaffirmed that Nigeria operates under the rule of law, adding that all persons legally residing in the country, regardless of nationality, are entitled to protection.

The NPF warned that any attempt to target South African citizens in Nigeria, foreign-owned businesses, diplomatic missions, or other lawful interests would be treated as a criminal act and prosecuted accordingly.

The police also cautioned Nigerians against circulating unverified reports and inflammatory content on social media, noting that misinformation could worsen tensions and undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.

Placid disclosed that the force is collaborating with other security and intelligence agencies to forestall any breakdown of law and order. He added that security has been reinforced around foreign embassies, strategic infrastructure, and sensitive locations nationwide.

The latest warning comes amid reports of renewed xenophobic violence in South Africa, particularly in Johannesburg and Pretoria, where anti-immigrant protests have escalated into attacks against foreign nationals.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed that the Federal Government is making arrangements for the voluntary evacuation of Nigerians from South Africa for those willing to return home.

She revealed that more Nigerians have begun registering for possible evacuation as the government intensifies diplomatic engagement with South African authorities to ensure the protection of Nigerian citizens and demand accountability for the attacks.

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad while pursuing a peaceful diplomatic resolution to the crisis.

Police Warn Nigerians Against Reprisal Over Fresh South Africa Xenophobic Attacks