NIDCOM Warns Nigerians in South Africa Amid Xenophobia

The Nigerian Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has issued an urgent warning to Nigerians residing in South Africa due to a resurgence of xenophobic attacks targeting foreign-owned businesses. The advisory, released on a Friday, urges Nigerians to temporarily shut their businesses to avoid confrontations as anti-foreign protests intensify across various regions, including East London, Cape Town, and Durban in KwaZulu Natal.

The situation has escalated to violence, with reports of looting and property destruction. A viral video showed a Nigerian trader being confronted by a group of South African men, further heightening fears among the Nigerian community and other foreign nationals, including Ghanaians.

NIDCOM has indicated that protests are expected in Gauteng province from April 27 to 29, coinciding with South Africa's Freedom Day. The commission, in collaboration with the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg, led by Ninikanwa O Okei, is working to ensure the safety of Nigerians.

Bianca Onoh, the Nigerian Commissioner, is engaging with South African authorities to monitor the situation closely.