Nigerian authorities have called on the population not to attack South African nationals or interests in the country, as tensions over immigration increase in South Africa.
In a statement, Nigerian police urged citizens to exercise restraint following reports of hostile acts targeting Nigerians living in South Africa. However, no attacks have been officially confirmed by South African authorities.
This warning comes after a meeting of Nigerian security and intelligence officials, as the situation raises increasing concerns in several African countries.
In South Africa, demonstrations have recently been held demanding a stronger crackdown on illegal immigration. Participants accuse undocumented migrants of straining public services and being involved in criminal activities.
The movement behind these gatherings, called "March and March", is demanding reform of migration policy and calling on undocumented migrants to leave the country before June 30.
Faced with rising tensions, several African states are closely monitoring the situation. Ghana, in particular, has evacuated several hundred of its citizens, citing concerns about their safety.
In its message, the Nigerian police acknowledged the concern raised by reports from South Africa, while stressing that the matter was being dealt with at the highest level by government authorities.
Law enforcement also announced increased security around diplomatic missions, strategic infrastructure and other sensitive sites in Nigeria.
They warned that any attack targeting South African nationals, businesses or diplomatic facilities in Nigeria would be considered a criminal act and would be prosecuted.
Previous waves of xenophobic violence in South Africa had already caused diplomatic tensions with Nigeria and led to reprisals against some South African companies operating in the country. Authorities in both countries are now seeking to prevent further escalation.
