NiDCOM Urges Nigerians in South Africa to Close Shops, Stay Safe Amid Rising Xenophobic Attacks
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has advised Nigerians living in South Africa to temporarily close their businesses and avoid confrontations as xenophobic attacks continue to spread across parts of the country.
The warning follows growing anti-foreigner protests in South Africa, where demonstrators have reportedly targeted foreign-owned shops and demanded the removal of non-nationals.
One of the videos circulating online shows a Nigerian clothes trader being confronted by a group of South African men who ordered him to pack his goods and leave the country.
The incident has heightened fears among Nigerians and other foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, many of whom depend on small businesses for their livelihood.
In a statement released on Friday, NiDCOM said the advisory was based on a circular issued by the Nigerian Consulate-General in Johannesburg on Wednesday.
According to the commission, protests in East London, Cape Town, Durban, and KwaZulu-Natal have turned violent, resulting in looting, destruction of property, and injuries.
NiDCOM added that intelligence from the consulate indicates fresh protests are planned in Gauteng Province between April 27 and 29, as demonstrators seek to pressure the South African government over the presence of foreign nationals.
The commission urged Nigerians to avoid engaging with protest groups, stay away from crowded areas, and follow local media for real-time security updates.
It also advised Nigerian business owners to close their shops on April 27, Freedom Day, and consider remaining closed on April 28 and 29, noting that foreign-owned businesses are often targeted during periods of unrest.
NiDCOM said it supports the position of Ninikanwa O. Okey-Uche, Nigeria’s Consul-General in Johannesburg, adding that the mission remains fully operational and is working with South African police authorities to ensure the safety of Nigerians.
The commission further disclosed that Bianca Onoh, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, is engaging with her South African counterpart over the situation.