The Nigeria Police Force has warned Nigerians against carrying out reprisal attacks on South African nationals, businesses and interests in the country over reported xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.
Force spokesperson, DCP Anthony Placid, said anyone who targets South African citizens, diplomatic facilities, businesses or other lawful interests in Nigeria will face the full weight of the law.
The police said concerns over attacks on Nigerians abroad are understandable, but warned that no citizen should take the law into their own hands.
According to the Force, violence, intimidation, destruction of property, hate speech or any action capable of threatening public peace and national security will not be tolerated.
The police also urged Nigerians to avoid spreading unverified or inflammatory information on social media, warning that false reports could worsen tensions and undermine diplomatic efforts.
Security agencies have reportedly increased surveillance around foreign missions, critical national assets and other key locations to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
The warning comes amid renewed concern over attacks targeting Nigerians and other African migrants in South Africa.
