Nigeria warns its citizens to steer clear of violent anti-foreigner demonstrations set to take place in South Africa today

A public advisory has been issued by the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg, warning Nigerians in South Africa of planned nationwide anti-foreigner protests set to take place today, May 4, 2026, with the notice being signed by Consul General, Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, on the preceding day.

n

The consulate's statement revealed that it had received information about anti-foreigner groups circulating invitations for a nationwide shutdown across all nine provinces, aiming to pressure the government into taking action against foreigners in the country.

n

The groups behind the protests allegedly claim that foreigners are benefiting more from South Africa than its citizens, and are demanding that all foreigners, whether documented or undocumented, leave the country urgently, while also planning marches to force foreigners out of the country.

n

Although the protests are expected to occur nationwide, the consulate noted that specific gathering points had not been identified in most cities, with the exception of Johannesburg, where protesters are expected to assemble at Mary Fitzgerald Square in Newtown.

n

The march in Johannesburg is scheduled to take place on Monday, May 4, between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., with a memorandum expected to be submitted at noon, and authorities are anticipating major disruptions in central business districts across key cities, including Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, and Durban.

n

The consulate has advised Nigerians to exercise caution and avoid any confrontation with demonstrators, with the advisory stating that all Nigerian nationals are strongly advised to avoid engaging demonstrators or confronting them.

n

Nigerian citizens have been urged to monitor local media and adopt necessary safety precautions, while business owners have been advised to consider temporarily shutting their businesses during the protests, due to fears that foreign-owned businesses could become targets.

n

The consulate has assured Nigerians of continued support, stating that it remains available to provide consular services and protect the interests of citizens, and has also disclosed that South African law enforcement agencies had been notified about the planned protests and the need to ensure the safety of foreign nationals and their businesses.

n

This advisory comes amid growing xenophobic tensions in South Africa, where at least 130 Nigerians have reportedly registered for voluntary evacuation flights being arranged by the Federal Government.

n

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, had earlier stated that the evacuation plan followed President Bola Tinubu’s directive to prioritize the safety of Nigerians abroad, noting that previous protests held between April 27 and 29 were largely peaceful but required heavy police deployment in affected cities.

n

Although the demonstrations did not result in widespread violence, authorities confirmed isolated incidents, including the deaths of two Nigerians linked to encounters with security personnel, and with another round of protests expected between May 4 and 8, Nigerian officials said diplomatic engagements with South African authorities are ongoing to safeguard citizens and prevent further escalation.