The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg has issued an urgent advisory to Nigerian nationals in South Africa over violent anti-foreigner protests. The alert, dated April 22, 2026, follows demonstrations in KuGompo, Cape Town, Durban, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal, some of which turned violent. Clashes have led to injuries, looting, and property destruction, with further protests expected in Gauteng Province between April 27 and 29. The consulate urged Nigerians to avoid contact with demonstrators and monitor local media for updates.
Business owners are advised to close shops on April 28 and 29, following the Freedom Day public holiday on April 27. The advisory warns that foreign-owned businesses may become targets during the unrest. "Nigerian business owners are strongly advised to strictly observe the public holiday of Freedom Day on 27th April, and also consider closing their shops/businesses on the other affected days – 28th and 29," the statement reads. The consulate pledged to provide consular services and engage South African police for protection.
The warning comes amid recurring xenophobic tensions in South Africa, home to about 2.4 million migrants. Major outbreaks occurred in 2008, 2015, and 2019, targeting foreign-owned businesses. In March 2026, a peaceful march in KuGompo turned violent after a protester claimed he was attacked by a foreigner. The unrest followed the installation of a Nigerian community leader with the traditional title "king of the Igbo people in East London."
The consulate warns Nigerians to shut businesses to avoid attacks, yet expects them to remain in a hostile environment without offering evacuation or relocation support. The advisory places the burden of safety on individuals rather than securing systemic protection for citizens abroad. With past violence in 2008, 2015, and 2019, and recurring threats in 2026, Nigerian nationals continue to operate businesses in high-risk areas with minimal diplomatic shielding. The presence of a titled Nigerian leader in KuGompo may have intensified local tensions, yet the consulate does not address how such appointments are coordinated with host communities.
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