Dare Babalola
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has advised Nigerians residing in South Africa to temporarily shut down their businesses and avoid confrontations as xenophobic attacks intensify in parts of the country.
The warning follows a surge in anti-foreigner protests across South Africa, during which demonstrators have reportedly targeted businesses owned by non-nationals and demanded their expulsion.
A widely circulated video shows a Nigerian clothing trader being confronted by a group of South African men who ordered him to vacate the country, further heightening fears among Nigerians and other foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, many of whom depend on small-scale enterprises for their livelihood.
In a statement issued on Friday, NiDCOM said the advisory was based on a circular from the Nigerian Consulate-General in Johannesburg released earlier in the week.
The commission noted that protests in cities such as East London, Cape Town, Durban, and KwaZulu-Natal have escalated into violence, resulting in looting, destruction of property, and injuries.
According to the commission, intelligence reports indicate that additional protests are being planned in Gauteng Province between April 27 and 29, with demonstrators aiming to pressure the South African government over the presence of foreign nationals.
NiDCOM urged Nigerians to avoid engaging with protest groups, steer clear of crowded areas, and closely monitor local media for updates on the evolving security situation.
The commission further advised Nigerian business owners to close their shops on April 27, which marks Freedom Day, and to consider extending the closure through April 28 and 29, noting that foreign-owned businesses are often primary targets during periods of unrest.
NiDCOM expressed support for the position of Ninikanwa O. Okey-Uche, adding that the Nigerian mission in Johannesburg remains operational and is collaborating with South African security agencies to ensure the safety of its citizens.
It also disclosed that Bianca Onoh is engaging with her South African counterpart in a bid to address the situation.
