Xenophobic Attacks South Africa: Nigeria Police urge calm, warn against reprisal violence, and say security agencies are monitoring the situation

The Nigeria Police Force has urged Nigerians to remain calm and avoid reprisal actions following reports of Xenophobic Attacks South Africa allegedly targeting Nigerian nationals, warning that any retaliatory violence within Nigeria will not be tolerated.

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Force Public Relations Officer, Deputy Commissioner of Police Anthony Okon Placid, issued the advisory on Sunday via the Force’s official X account, stating that security and intelligence agencies had reviewed the situation and activated preventive measures to maintain public order.

The statement followed a Joint Intelligence Board meeting held on May 18, 2026, under the chairmanship of the National Security Adviser, according to the police.

“The Nigeria Police Force assures Nigerians that there is no cause for alarm. The Federal Government is actively engaging relevant authorities and stakeholders through diplomatic, intelligence, and security channels to resolve the situation peacefully and protect the interests of Nigerians at home and abroad,” the statement said.

While acknowledging public concern over the reported attacks in South Africa, the police cautioned citizens against taking the law into their own hands.

“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 Force stated.

It further warned that reprisals, violence, intimidation, destruction of property, hate speech or any conduct capable of threatening public peace would be treated as criminal offences.

“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,” it added.

The police emphasised that Nigeria remains governed by the rule of law and that all legally resident foreign nationals are entitled to protection.

Authorities also urged citizens to refrain from circulating unverified or inflammatory content on social media, warning that misinformation could escalate tensions and complicate diplomatic efforts.

“Sharing false or provocative content can escalate tensions, undermine public order, and hinder diplomatic efforts to resolve the situation,” the statement said.

According to the Force, security agencies have intensified surveillance and deployed personnel to safeguard critical infrastructure, foreign missions and other sensitive locations across the country.

“The Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies, has implemented security measures and increased surveillance around critical national assets, foreign missions, and other key locations,” it stated.

The police said adequate deployments had been made nationwide to prevent any breakdown of law and order while diplomatic efforts continue.

Reaffirming its commitment to peace and stability, the Force assured Nigerians that law enforcement agencies remain fully prepared to protect lives and property.

“The Force remains fully committed to protecting lives and property, preserving public peace, and maintaining national security,” the statement added.

The advisory comes amid renewed concern over reports of violence against foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, which have historically triggered diplomatic tensions across the continent.

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Nigerian authorities say ongoing engagement with South African officials and international partners is aimed at ensuring the safety of citizens abroad while preventing escalation at home.