FG, Police move to tackle tensions over alleged xenophobic attacks in South Africa, warn against reprisal violence in Nigeria
The Nigeria Police Force has appealed for calm nationwide following reports of xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians in South Africa, warning that any form of reprisal violence within Nigeria will be met with swift enforcement of the law.
The Force said the Federal Government is already engaging South African authorities and other relevant stakeholders through diplomatic, intelligence, and security channels aimed at de-escalating tensions and protecting Nigerian citizens abroad, while also safeguarding foreign nationals and interests within Nigeria.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the Police assured Nigerians that there is no immediate threat to public peace, stressing that security agencies are closely monitoring developments and have activated preventive measures across the country.
Placid noted that the situation was reviewed at a Joint Intelligence Board meeting held on May 18, 2026, and chaired by the National Security Adviser, where security and intelligence agencies assessed the potential implications of the reported incidents and agreed on coordinated response strategies.
Following the review, authorities reaffirmed that while concerns over the safety of Nigerians in South Africa are being taken seriously, citizens must not resort to self-help or unlawful retaliation.
He warned that reprisals, including attacks on individuals, businesses, diplomatic missions, or property associated with South Africa in Nigeria, would constitute criminal acts and be prosecuted under existing laws.
Nigeria, he emphasized, remains a constitutional democracy governed by the rule of law, and all persons residing within its territory are entitled to protection regardless of nationality or origin.
He further cautioned against the spread of unverified or inflammatory content, particularly on social media platforms, noting that misinformation could worsen tensions, provoke unrest, and undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the matter peacefully.
Security agencies, Placid added, have strengthened surveillance and security deployments around critical national infrastructure, foreign missions, and other sensitive locations nationwide to forestall any breach of peace.
Adequate personnel have also been deployed in strategic areas to ensure early detection and rapid response to any attempt to disrupt public order.
He reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace, protecting lives and property, and ensuring national stability, while urging Nigerians to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding in their daily activities.
He also expressed appreciation for public cooperation, assuring that the Federal Government and relevant security institutions are actively managing the situation in the best interest of national security and international relations.
