The Nigerian government, through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has urged Nigerians living in South Africa to “close shops and stay safe” as xenophobic violence escalates across parts of the country.

In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the commission said the advisory followed a circular from the Nigerian Consulate-General in Johannesburg.

NiDCOM revealed that there is currently a “growing anti-foreigner protest” across South Africa, with demonstrators targeting foreign-owned businesses and calling for the expulsion of non-nationals.

According to the commission, protests in East London, Cape Town, Durban, and KwaZulu-Natal have “turned violent,” resulting in looting, destruction of property, and injuries.

The commission further disclosed that intelligence from the consulate indicates that fresh protests are planned in Gauteng Province between April 27 and 29, as demonstrators seek to pressure the South African government over the presence of foreign nationals.

As part of its safety measures, NiDCOM advised Nigerians to “refrain from engaging protest groups,” “avoid crowded areas,” and monitor local media for real-time updates.

It also specifically urged Nigerian business owners to “close their shops on April 27,” which marks Freedom Day, and to consider remaining closed on April 28 and 29, noting that foreign-owned businesses are often targeted during such unrest.

NiDCOM added that Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is engaging with South African authorities, as concerns mount over the safety of Nigerians and other African nationals.

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