Nigerian citizens in South Africa have been urged to avoid involvement in xenophobic protests scheduled for Monday, as the Consulate General in Johannesburg issued a strong safety warning. The consulate, led by Consul General Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, confirmed that anti-foreigner groups have distributed invitations calling for a nationwide shutdown across all nine provinces. These protests, set to take place on Monday, are driven by claims that foreigners, including Nigerians, are benefiting more from South Africa’s economy than its citizens. The organisers are demanding the immediate expulsion of all foreigners, regardless of legal status.
In a statement released on Sunday, Okey-Uche emphasized that Nigerian nationals should not engage with demonstrators or confront them under any circumstances. He advised all Nigerians to closely monitor local media for updates and to take necessary safety precautions to protect themselves. The consulate also recommended that Nigerian business owners in South Africa close their shops during the protests, citing the potential for violence. This precautionary measure comes amid rising tensions and reports of violent incidents targeting foreign nationals.
The advisory follows a tragic incident in which at least two Nigerian citizens were killed in xenophobic attacks. These killings have heightened fears among the Nigerian community and prompted urgent diplomatic action. The Nigerian federal government has summoned Bobby Moroe, the acting High Commissioner of South Africa to Nigeria, for a meeting on Monday to discuss the escalating violence and demand accountability. The government’s move underscores the seriousness of the situation and its commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.
The Consulate General reiterated its dedication to providing consular services and ensuring the safety of Nigerians in South Africa. Officials urged citizens to remain calm, law-abiding, and vigilant during this tense period. While the protests are framed as a call for government action on immigration, they have increasingly turned violent, putting foreign nationals at significant risk. Nigerian authorities are closely monitoring developments and coordinating with South African officials to prevent further harm.
As tensions remain high, the safety of Nigerians in South Africa continues to be a top priority. The government’s diplomatic engagement and the consulate’s public advisory reflect efforts to safeguard lives and maintain stability. The situation serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by foreign nationals in times of political and social unrest, and the need for coordinated international responses to protect citizens abroad.
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