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Nigerian police urge calm amid rising tensions with South Africa

Jun 1, 2026, 12:02 PM20
(Update: Jun 2, 2026, 4:09 PM)
sovereign state in West Africa
citizens or residents of South Africa
country in southern Africa

Nigerian police urge calm amid rising tensions with South Africa

  • Tensions in South Africa have risen due to protests against undocumented migrants, leading to violence.
  • The Nigerian police have warned against any retaliatory actions against South African nationals in Nigeria.
  • The situation highlights ongoing issues of xenophobia in South Africa and the need for calm.
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In recent weeks, tensions have escalated in South Africa due to a series of anti-migrant protests, particularly targeting undocumented immigrants. These protests have been organized by a group called March and March, which is advocating for stricter immigration enforcement and has set a deadline for undocumented migrants to leave the country by June 30. The protests have led to violent incidents, including the deaths of two Mozambican men in Mossel Bay, which the Mozambican government attributes to xenophobic attacks. Although South African police have not confirmed any attacks on foreigners, they have condemned the violence directed at foreign nationals. In response to the situation, the Nigerian police have issued a warning against any retaliatory actions against South African nationals or businesses in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for calm and restraint. They have stated that any attempts to target South African interests will be treated as criminal acts. The Nigerian police's warning comes after reports of attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, although no such incidents have been confirmed. The Nigerian government is addressing the matter at high levels, and additional security measures have been implemented around foreign missions and sensitive locations. The ongoing protests in South Africa reflect a broader issue of xenophobia that has historically led to violence against foreign nationals, creating diplomatic tensions between South Africa and other African nations.

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