The Nigeria Police Force has urged Nigerians to remain peaceful and avoid retaliatory attacks following reports of xenophobic assaults on Nigerians residing in South Africa.
The Force warned that any attack on South African nationals, businesses, diplomatic facilities or other interests within Nigeria would be treated as a criminal offence and prosecuted under the law.
Government moves to contain tensions
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the police disclosed that security and intelligence agencies had assessed the situation and adopted measures aimed at preventing any disturbance of public order.
According to the statement, the review followed a Joint Intelligence Board meeting held on May 18, 2026, under the chairmanship of the National Security Adviser.
The police said the Federal Government was already engaging relevant authorities and stakeholders through diplomatic, intelligence and security channels to address the matter and safeguard Nigerians both at home and abroad.
The Force assured citizens that there was no reason for panic, stressing that efforts were underway to resolve the situation peacefully.
Police reject calls for reprisal
While acknowledging public anger over the reported attacks, the police warned Nigerians against resorting to self-help or taking the law into their own hands.
The Force said violence, intimidation, destruction of property, hate speech and other actions capable of threatening public peace and national security would not be tolerated.
It maintained that Nigeria remains a nation governed by the rule of law, adding that all individuals legally residing in the country are entitled to protection regardless of their nationality.
The statement further warned that any attempt to target South African citizens, diplomatic missions or businesses operating in Nigeria would attract legal consequences.
Security presence increased
The police disclosed that surveillance had been intensified around foreign missions, strategic facilities and critical national infrastructure across the country.
It added that personnel had been deployed to key locations in collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
According to the Force, the measures are designed to ensure public safety and protect lives and property amid growing concerns over the situation in South Africa.
Warning over inflammatory content
The police also cautioned Nigerians against circulating unverified reports or provocative messages, particularly on social media.
It warned that the spread of false information could heighten tensions, disrupt public peace and undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.
Reaffirming its commitment to national security, the Force assured Nigerians that relevant government institutions were actively managing the situation and taking steps to preserve peace, protect citizens and maintain the country’s international relations.