The Nigeria Police Force has warned Nigerians against carrying out reprisal attacks on South African nationals, businesses, diplomatic missions and other interests in the country following renewed reports of xenophobic attacks on Nigerians residing in South Africa.
The warning comes amid growing public outrage over the alleged attacks and fears that tensions could spark retaliatory actions within Nigeria.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, the police said security and intelligence agencies had already reviewed the situation and adopted measures to prevent any breakdown of law and order across the country.
According to the statement, “After the Joint Intelligence Board Meeting on 18 May 2026, chaired by the National Security Adviser, security and intelligence agencies conducted a comprehensive review to assess security implications and determine necessary response measures.”
The Nigeria Police Force assured citizens that there was no cause for panic, noting that the federal government was actively engaging relevant authorities and stakeholders through diplomatic, intelligence and security channels to address the situation peacefully and protect Nigerians both at home and abroad.
While acknowledging the concerns generated by the attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, the police cautioned citizens against taking the law into their own hands through acts of violence, intimidation or destruction.
The Force stressed that any reprisal attack targeting South African nationals, diplomatic facilities, businesses or lawful interests in Nigeria would be considered a criminal offence and dealt with according to existing laws.
The statement further warned against hate speech and any action capable of threatening public peace and national security.
“The Nigeria Police Force wishes to emphasise that Nigeria remains a country governed by the rule of law, and all persons lawfully residing within its borders, regardless of nationality, are entitled to protection under the law,” the statement said.
The police also urged members of the public to avoid spreading unverified or inflammatory content, especially on social media platforms, warning that false information could worsen tensions and undermine diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the crisis.
To prevent possible unrest, the Force disclosed that it had strengthened security measures around critical national infrastructure, foreign missions and other strategic locations across the country.
According to the police, adequate security deployments have also been made in collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies to ensure the protection of lives and property.
Reaffirming its commitment to maintaining peace and public safety, the Nigeria Police Force urged Nigerians to remain calm, law-abiding and vigilant while continuing their lawful activities without fear.
The Force also expressed appreciation to citizens for their cooperation and understanding, assuring the public that relevant government institutions were actively managing the situation in the interest of national security and Nigeria’s international relations.
