Authorities of the Nigeria Police Force have moved to prevent possible retaliatory attacks in Nigeria over reported xenophobic violence against Nigerians in South Africa, warning that no individual or group will be allowed to target South African nationals, businesses, or diplomatic interests under any guise.
Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, made this known in a statement made available to AIT News after security and intelligence agencies reviewed the situation at a Joint Intelligence Board meeting chaired by the National Security Adviser on May 18, 2026.
The Force said the Federal Government is already deploying diplomatic, intelligence, and security measures to manage the situation and protect Nigerians both within and outside the country.
While describing public concerns over the reported attacks as understandable, the Police warned against reprisals, mob actions, hate speech, destruction of property, and other conduct capable of triggering a wider security crisis.
The statement emphasized that Nigeria’s laws protect every lawful resident irrespective of nationality, adding that any attack on foreign nationals or interests within the country would be treated as a criminal offence.
The Police also raised concerns over the spread of provocative and unverified content online, warning that misinformation could inflame tensions and frustrate ongoing diplomatic engagements.
According to the Force, surveillance and security presence have been strengthened around foreign missions, strategic facilities, and other sensitive locations nationwide to forestall any breakdown of law and order.
Editor: Ada Ononye
