Suspend All Socio-Cultural Activities – Nigerian High Commission Warns Citizens In South Africa Amid Rising T£nsions
Suspend All Socio-Cultural Activities – Nigerian High Commission Warns Citizens In South Africa Amid Rising Tensions
The advisory, issued by the High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, stressed the need for heightened personal security and restraint in public conduct.
The Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria has issued a fresh warning to Nigerians living in South Africa, urging them to exercise caution, particularly on social media, amid escalating tensions in parts of the country.
In an advisory dated March 30, 2026, the diplomatic mission called on Nigerian nationals to avoid making inflammatory statements online that could further aggravate the already volatile situation, especially in the Eastern Cape Province.
The advisory, issued by the High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, stressed the need for heightened personal security and restraint in public conduct.
“Avoid inflammatory statements on social or mainstream media capable of heightening the current tensions,” the statement warned.
The Commission also urged Nigerians to be vigilant and adopt safety measures, including limiting movement, avoiding unfamiliar individuals, and maintaining a low profile.
“Be conscious and mindful of personal and individual safety,” the advisory stated.
“Moderate movement and limit interaction with strange persons or people. Maintain a low profile at all times.”
It further directed Nigerians to suspend socio-cultural gatherings and steer clear of protests or any form of public demonstrations.
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“Stay clear of any demonstration or counter-protests,” the mission cautioned, adding that nationals should “remain law-abiding and pay respect to local laws and customs.”
The High Commission also advised against ostentatious displays of wealth, warning that such actions could make individuals targets amid the rising tension.
“Refrain from indulging in unnecessary ostentation and flamboyance,” it said.
Nigerians were encouraged to report any threats to local law enforcement agencies and maintain close contact with Nigerian diplomatic offices in Pretoria and Johannesburg for guidance.
The warning comes amid growing unrest in parts of South Africa following controversy surrounding the alleged installation of an “Igwe Ndigbo” in East London—an incident that has sparked outrage among some South African groups and triggered protests.
As earlier reported by SaharaReporters, demonstrators, including members of political group ActionSA and traditional leaders, had taken to the streets demanding the deportation of Nigerians linked to the event.
The protests reportedly turned violent, with vehicles and buildings belonging to foreign nationals set ablaze in areas such as KuGompo City, forcing security operatives to intervene.
In response, the Nigerian High Commission had denied any involvement in or approval of the purported coronation, describing the claims as misleading.
“The High Commission wishes to state, unequivocally, that, contrary to the narrative in the public domain, no coronation took place and none intended,” the mission said in an earlier statement.
It emphasised that Nigeria respects South Africa’s sovereignty, laws, and traditional institutions, warning against misinterpretation of Nigerian cultural practices.
The Commission also explained that events such as chieftaincy titles and cultural festivals among the Igbo people are often symbolic and do not carry political authority outside their cultural context.
Despite these clarifications, tensions have remained high, prompting the latest advisory aimed at preventing further escalation and ensuring the safety of Nigerians in the country.
The development underscores growing concerns over xenophobic violence and the fragile relationship between host communities and foreign nationals in South Africa, particularly during periods of socio-political unrest.
