By Our Reporter
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has called on Nigerians to remain calm over reports of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa, warning against any form of reprisal attacks on South African nationals, businesses, or interests in Nigeria.
In a statement, the police said security and intelligence agencies had reviewed the situation following a Joint Intelligence Board meeting held on May 18, 2026, under the chairmanship of the National Security Adviser.
According to the Force, the review was aimed at assessing the security implications of the reported incidents and determining appropriate response measures.
The police assured Nigerians that there was no cause for alarm, noting that the Federal Government was actively engaging relevant authorities and stakeholders through diplomatic, intelligence, and security channels to address the situation and safeguard the interests of Nigerians both at home and abroad.
While acknowledging public concerns over the reported attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, the Force cautioned citizens against taking the law into their own hands.
The statement stressed that reprisal attacks, violence, intimidation, destruction of property, hate speech, or any action capable of threatening public peace and national security would not be tolerated.
The police reiterated that Nigeria remains a country governed by the rule of law, where all persons residing legally within its borders, regardless of nationality, are entitled to protection.
Consequently, the Force warned that any attempt to target South African nationals, diplomatic missions, businesses, or other lawful interests in Nigeria would be treated as a criminal offence and prosecuted in accordance with existing laws.
The NPF 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 circulation of false or provocative content could heighten tensions, undermine public order, and frustrate ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the situation.
To forestall any breakdown of law and order, the police disclosed that security measures had been strengthened across the country in collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies.
The Force added that surveillance around critical national assets, foreign missions, and other key locations had been intensified, while adequate personnel had been deployed to maintain public safety and protect lives and property.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to preserving peace, maintaining law and order, and ensuring the safety of all residents in the country.
