Xenophobia: Police warn against reprisal attacks on South African nationals in Nigeria

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has warned Nigerians against carrying out reprisal attacks on South African nationals and businesses in response to renewed xenophobic violence in South Africa.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Anthony Placid, the force public relations officer, said the police had received concerns about possible retaliatory actions targeting South African interests in Nigeria.

“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,” the statement read.

“Reprisal attacks, violence, intimidation, destruction of property, hate speech, or any conduct that threatens public peace and national security is unlawful and will not be tolerated.

“Nigeria remains a nation governed by the rule of law. All persons lawfully residing within the country, irrespective of nationality, are entitled to protection under the law.

“Consequently, any attempt to target South African nationals, diplomatic facilities, businesses, or other lawful interests within Nigeria will be treated as a criminal act and dealt with in accordance with extant laws.”

The police also cautioned against the spread of unverified or inflammatory information, particularly on social media, noting that such content could escalate tensions and undermine diplomatic efforts.

According to Placid, the NPF is collaborating with other security and intelligence agencies and has heightened security measures around critical national assets, foreign missions, and key locations.

“Adequate deployments have been made to prevent any breakdown of law and order,” he added.

The warning comes amid reports that at least two Nigerians have been killed in South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said the Federal Government is making arrangements to repatriate citizens willing to return home due to the violence.