Xenophobia: Tinubu orders tight monitoring as anti-foreigner protests loom in South Africa
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in South Africa to closely monitor developments ahead of a fresh wave of protests targeting foreign nationals. The demonstrations are scheduled
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in South Africa to closely monitor developments ahead of a fresh wave of protests targeting foreign nationals.
The demonstrations are scheduled to hold from May 4 to May 8, 2026, raising renewed concerns over the safety of Nigerians residing in the country.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, at least 130 Nigerians have already registered for voluntary evacuation following last week’s protest march in Johannesburg, with the figure expected to increase.
In a statement, the Federal Government said the president had expressed “grave concern” after receiving a briefing on the situation and called on South African authorities to strengthen security measures to prevent escalation.
“The President has directed that the situation be monitored very closely,” the statement said, adding that the Nigerian High Commission and Consulate are maintaining constant communication with host authorities to minimise risks to Nigerian citizens.
The government also disclosed that arrangements were underway to compile data of Nigerians willing to return home, as part of plans for possible repatriation flights. Nigerian community groups in South Africa are supporting the exercise.
Reiterating Nigeria’s position, the statement noted the country’s historic role in South Africa’s liberation struggle and stressed the need to educate younger generations on that shared history.
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It warned against recurring xenophobic attacks, describing them as often linked to political cycles and exploited by anti-immigration groups.
The government further cited a recently signed bilateral agreement on early-warning mechanisms between the two countries, aimed at protecting citizens during periods of tension.
While protests held between April 27 and 29 in Pretoria and Johannesburg were largely peaceful under a heavy security presence, two Nigerian nationals were reported dead in separate incidents involving security personnel.
Amamiro Chidiebere Emmanuel reportedly died from injuries sustained after an alleged assault by members of the South African National Defence Force in Port Elizabeth, while Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew was found dead at the Pretoria Central Mortuary following an encounter with metro police.
The federal government described the incidents as “condemnable and unacceptable,” confirming that the Nigerian High Commission is monitoring ongoing investigations and demanding justice for the victims.
Authorities maintained that the safety and welfare of Nigerians abroad remain a top priority as diplomatic engagements with South African officials continue.
