By Nkechi Eze
The Nigeria Police Force has called for calm and restraint following reports of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa, warning against any form of reprisal attacks on South African nationals, businesses, or interests within Nigeria.
According to an official signed statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, the Federal Government and relevant security agencies are closely monitoring the situation and have taken proactive measures to safeguard national security and public order.
The statement revealed that following the Joint Intelligence Board Meeting held on 18 May 2026 and chaired by the National Security Adviser, security and intelligence agencies conducted a comprehensive review of the situation to assess its security implications and determine appropriate response measures.
DCP Placid assured Nigerians that there is no cause for alarm, noting that the Federal Government is actively engaging relevant authorities and stakeholders through diplomatic, intelligence, and security channels to address the matter peacefully while protecting the interests of Nigerians both at home and abroad.
While acknowledging public concerns over the reported attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, the Police cautioned citizens against taking the law into their own hands. The Force emphasized that reprisal attacks, violence, intimidation, destruction of property, hate speech, or any act capable of threatening public peace and national security remain unlawful and will not be tolerated.
The statement stressed that Nigeria remains a nation governed by the rule of law, where all persons lawfully residing in the country, regardless of nationality, are entitled to protection under the law. Consequently, any attempt to target South African nationals, diplomatic missions, businesses, or other lawful interests in Nigeria would be treated as a criminal offence and dealt with in accordance with extant laws.
The Police also urged members of the public to refrain from spreading unverified, inflammatory, or inciting information, particularly on social media platforms. According to the statement, the dissemination of false or provocative content could escalate tensions, undermine public order, and complicate ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the situation.
To forestall any potential security breaches, the Nigeria Police Force disclosed that it has, in collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies, heightened surveillance and strengthened security around critical national assets, foreign missions, and other strategic locations across the country. Adequate deployments, the statement added, have been made to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property, preserving public peace, and maintaining national security, the Force encouraged Nigerians to remain calm, law-abiding, and vigilant while continuing their lawful activities without fear.
The Nigeria Police Force further expressed appreciation for the cooperation and understanding of citizens, assuring the public that relevant government institutions are actively managing the situation in the overall interest of national security and Nigeria’s international relations.
