As xenophobic attacks continue in South Africa, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has advised Nigerians living in the country to temporarily shut their businesses and avoid confrontations.
The warning comes amid rising anti-foreigner protests in parts of South Africa, where some locals have demanded the removal of foreigners and the closure of foreign-owned businesses.
In a statement, NiDCOM said the advisory followed a circular issued by the Nigerian Consulate-General in Johannesburg on Wednesday. The commission noted that protests in East London, Cape Town, Durban, and KwaZulu-Natal had turned violent, resulting in looting, destruction of property, and injuries.
NiDCOM also said intelligence reports from the consulate suggest new protests are being planned in Gauteng between April 27 and 29, as demonstrators seek to pressure the government over the presence of foreign nationals.
The commission urged Nigerians to avoid engaging with protesters, stay away from crowded places, and follow local media updates for security information.
It further advised Nigerian business owners to close their shops on April 27, observed as Freedom Day, and consider remaining closed on April 28 and 29, noting that foreign-owned businesses are often targeted during unrest.
NiDCOM said it supports the stance of Ninikanwa O. Okey-Uche and added that the mission remains active while working with South African police to safeguard Nigerians.
The commission also stated that Bianca Ojukwu is in talks with her South African counterpart regarding the situation.