By Ebi Kesiena
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has advised Nigerians living in South Africa to temporarily close their businesses and steer clear of confrontations as xenophobic attacks intensify across parts of the country.
The advisory follows a surge in anti-foreigner protests, with some South Africans calling for the expulsion of foreign nationals and the shutdown of foreign-owned businesses.
In a statement, NiDCOM said the warning was issued in response to a circular from the Consulate-General of Nigeria in Johannesburg. The commission noted that protests in East London, Cape Town, Durban and KwaZulu-Natal have escalated into violence, resulting in looting, property destruction and injuries.
According to NiDCOM, intelligence reports indicate that fresh demonstrations are being planned in Gauteng Province between April 27 and 29, as protesters seek to pressure authorities over the presence of foreign nationals.
The commission urged Nigerians to avoid protest areas, refrain from engaging demonstrators and stay updated through local media on developments.
It also advised Nigerian business owners to shut their shops on April 27, which marks Freedom Day in South Africa, and consider remaining closed on April 28 and 29, warning that foreign-owned businesses are often targeted during such unrest.
NiDCOM said it aligns with the position of the Consul-General of Nigeria in Johannesburg, Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, adding that the mission remains operational and is working with South African security agencies to ensure the safety of Nigerians.
The commission further disclosed that the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu, is engaging with South African authorities to address the situation.
