The Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa has asked the Federal Government and African Union to step in urgently to halt what it described as “persistent xenophobic attacks” on Nigerians and other Africans.
The appeal follows new safety warnings from the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission and the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg after anti-foreigner protests turned violent in four provinces. More demonstrations are planned for Gauteng between April 27 and 29.
In a circular dated April 22, 2026, the Consulate General in Johannesburg said protests in East London, Cape Town, Durban and KwaZulu-Natal had resulted in looting, property damage and injuries. Intelligence reports show fresh protests are scheduled for Freedom Day, April 27, through April 29, with organisers demanding government action against foreign nationals.
Videos circulating online show groups wielding sticks chasing and assaulting Black foreigners. In one clip, three men were seen punching a Ghanaian after confirming his nationality.
NiDCOM Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa advised Nigerians to avoid confrontation, stay away from protest areas, and monitor local media. She urged Nigerian business owners to close shops on April 27 and consider remaining shut through April 29, noting that foreign-owned businesses are often targeted.
Dabiri-Erewa disclosed on X that Amb. Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, is “actively engaging her South African counterpart”. She added: “The AU must intervene in these dastardly xenophobic attacks against blacks in South Africa.”
Consul-General Ninikanwa O. Okey-Uche said the Johannesburg mission remains open and is working with South African police to protect Nigerians.
South Africa’s Police Ministry said “violence will not be tolerated” and confirmed legal action against anti-immigration groups, including Operation Dudula and the MK Party, for inciting violence on January 27, 2026.
Xenophobic violence has recurred in South Africa since 2008, with major flare-ups in 2015, 2019 and 2022. In 2019, Nigeria evacuated over 600 citizens after attacks in Johannesburg and Pretoria.
NiDCOM SAFETY ADVISORY
Avoid protest areas, especially Gauteng April 27-29.
Do not engage demonstrators or counter-protest.
Close foreign-owned businesses April 27-29. Monitor local media for updates.
Remain law-abiding. Contact the Consulate if threatened.
