The Federal Government has advised Nigerians resident in South Africa to ensure their safety by closing down their businesses and avoid any protests as xenophobic tensions rise in that country.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has kick-started diplomatic activities with her South African counterpart on the protection of Nigerians amidst huge demonstrations targeting foreigners.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) equally issued a stern advice asking Nigerian company owners to shut down operations temporarily amid the disturbance.
The commission, in a statement signed by its Director of Media, Publicity and Protocol, Abdulrahman Balogun, warned Nigerians against any kind of conflict.
NiDCOM said, “The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu is in discussion with the Foreign Affairs Minister in South Africa.
The panel also called on Nigerians to be watchful, law abiding and watch happenings attentively.
“NiDCOM is appealing to all Nigerians to stay away from any confrontation with the protesters, stay away from any group of demonstrators and keep an eye on the local media for up-to-date safety information.
“Also, Nigerian nationals are advised to always be law abiding.
NiDCOM especially asked business owners to take preventive steps throughout the period of the demonstration.
“You are also advised to protect your business by closing on Freedom Day, April 27, and to consider remaining closed on April 28 and 29, as foreign owned businesses are often targeted during unrest,” the advisory further said.
The warning follows an escalation of anti-foreigner protests that have turned violent in several areas of South Africa. There were reports of looting, property damage and injuries in locations including East London, Cape Town, Durban and KwaZulu-Natal, an official circular from the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg said.
Sources indicate additional planned rallies in Gauteng Province from April 27-29, with demonstrators trying to pressure the South African government over the presence of foreign nationals.
NiDCOM also said the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg is still operational and is collaborating with the police authorities in South Africa to ensure the safety of Nigerian people.
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