Urgent Advisory from Nigerian Consulate in South Africa
The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg has issued a critical warning to its citizens in South Africa, following a series of anti-foreigner demonstrations that have erupted across the country. These protests have been particularly intense in several cities, including KuGompo (formerly East London), Cape Town, Durban, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal. Some of these demonstrations have turned violent, leading to serious consequences.
According to a public notice dated April 22, 2026, clashes between protesters and foreign nationals have resulted in injuries, looting, and damage to property. The consulate is closely monitoring the situation and has warned that further demonstrations are expected in Gauteng Province between April 27 and 29. In light of this, Nigerians are urged to exercise caution during this period.
The statement from the consulate advised Nigerian nationals to avoid any engagement with demonstrators or confrontation with protest groups. It also recommended that citizens closely monitor local media and take all necessary safety precautions. Business owners, in particular, are being urged to take preventive measures to protect their establishments.
Recommendations for Business Owners
The consulate specifically highlighted the importance of observing the public holiday on Freedom Day, which falls on April 27. It advised Nigerian business owners to consider closing their shops or businesses on April 28 and 29, as there is a risk of attacks on foreign-owned establishments. The statement emphasized that while no guarantees can be given about the peaceful nature of the protests, foreign-owned businesses could become targets.
“Nigerian business owners are strongly advised to strictly observe the public holiday of Freedom Day on 27th April, and also consider closing their shops/businesses on the other affected days – 28th and 29,” the notice stated. “There are no guarantees that the protests will be peaceful and foreign-owned businesses could become soft targets for the protesters.”
Commitment to Support and Safety
Despite the challenges, the consulate reassured Nigerians of its continued support. It confirmed that it remains available to provide consular services and is actively engaging with South African authorities to ensure the safety of its citizens. The statement encouraged Nigerians to remain calm and law-abiding, emphasizing that the consulate will work with the relevant police authorities to provide necessary protection.
“We remain available to discharge all Consular services to our nationals. We will also engage the relevant Police authorities for the necessary protection of our people, while continuing to seek ways to restore peace through the appropriate diplomatic channels,” the Consulate concluded.
Historical Context of Xenophobic Violence in South Africa
This latest development comes amid ongoing tensions over immigration in South Africa, where foreign nationals have frequently faced hostility and targeted violence. South Africa is home to approximately 2.4 million migrants, making up just under 4% of the population. The country has a long history of xenophobic violence, with major outbreaks recorded in 2008, resulting in the deaths of 62 people, injuries to hundreds, and the displacement of over 6,000 individuals, many of whom were immigrants from Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Nigeria.
In recent years, renewed violent attacks in 2015 and 2019 saw widespread looting of foreign-owned shops and the destruction of businesses, particularly those owned by migrants from other African countries. These incidents have deepened fears within immigrant communities and continue to influence responses to new waves of unrest.
Role of Anti-Migrant Groups
Organized anti-migrant groups have played an increasing role in fueling such tensions. Movements like Operation Dudula have campaigned for the removal of undocumented migrants, staging protests and conducting raids on businesses and public spaces. Their activities, often framed as efforts to tackle crime or protect local jobs, have drawn criticism for targeting foreign nationals and escalating hostility.
Recently, in March 2026, a peaceful march in the port city of KuGompo turned chaotic after a protester claimed he was attacked by a foreigner. This led to the damage of several vehicles and shops. The unrest occurred amid tensions surrounding the recent installation of a Nigerian community leader in the city, who holds a traditional title that can be translated as “king of the Igbo people in East London.”
