The Nigeria Police Force has issued an urgent warning against reprisal attacks on South African nationals and businesses, following a wave of xenophobic violence in South Africa that left several Nigerians dead and properties destroyed. The UK High Commission has stepped in to mediate between the two nations, as tensions threaten to spiral out of control.
In a statement released this morning, police spokesperson Frank Mba urged Nigerians to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands. "The Nigeria Police will not tolerate any form of jungle justice or reprisal attacks on South Africans living in Nigeria," Mba said. "We have deployed additional officers to protect South African-owned businesses and diplomatic missions."
The warning comes after reports of South African shops being targeted in Lagos and Abuja, with angry mobs demanding retaliation for the attacks in Johannesburg and Pretoria. At least four Nigerian nationals were killed last week, and several businesses looted amid a resurgence of anti-immigrant sentiment in South Africa's economic hubs.
The UK High Commission confirmed it is facilitating dialogue between the Nigerian and South African governments. A spokesperson said, "We are deeply concerned by the escalating tensions. Our High Commissioner has been in contact with both sides to urge restraint and find a peaceful resolution."
For ordinary Nigerians, the crisis hits close to home. Many families rely on remittances from relatives in South Africa, where an estimated 800,000 Nigerians live and work. "My brother lost his shop in Soweto," said Chidi Okonkwo, a taxi driver in Lagos. "Now they want to hurt South Africans here? That will just make things worse. We need our leaders to talk."
Economists warn that a trade war between Africa's two largest economies could devastate regional stability. Bilateral trade was worth over £3 billion in 2022, with Nigerian oil exports and South African manufactured goods forming the backbone of commerce. Any disruption would hit hard, especially for low-income families already struggling with soaring food and fuel prices.
The police have promised swift action against anyone inciting violence. But on the streets of Lagos, the mood is tense. "I understand the anger," said market trader Fatima Bello. "But burning shops here won't bring back those who died. We need justice, not more bloodshed."
As the UK steps in, the question remains: can diplomacy cool a crisis fuelled by decades of inequality and mistrust? For now, families on both sides hold their breath, hoping reason prevails before the violence spreads further.
