The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) on Saturday called for calm following reports of xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, warning that any reprisal attacks against South African nationals, businesses, or interests in Nigeria would be treated as criminal acts.

In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, and made available to newsmen in Abuja on Saturday, the police said security agencies had reviewed the situation and put measures in place to forestall any breakdown of law and order across the country.

According to the statement, “The Nigeria Police Force advises the public regarding reports of xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa and concerns about possible reprisal attacks on South African nationals, businesses, and interests in Nigeria.

“This decision followed deliberations at the Joint Intelligence Board Meeting held on May 18, 2026, and chaired by the National Security Adviser.

“Following the Joint Intelligence Board Meeting of 18 May 2026, chaired by the National Security Adviser, security and intelligence agencies conducted a comprehensive review to assess the security implications and determine the necessary response measures.”

The Force sought to reassure Nigerians that the Federal Government was actively handling the matter through diplomatic and security channels.

“The Nigeria Police Force assures Nigerians that there is no cause for alarm. The Federal Government is actively engaging relevant authorities and stakeholders through diplomatic, intelligence, and security channels to resolve the situation peacefully and protect the interests of Nigerians at home and abroad.”

While acknowledging public concerns over the reported attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, the police cautioned citizens against taking matters into their own hands.

According to the statement, “While concerns about attacks on Nigerians in South Africa are understandable, the public is strongly advised not to take the law into their own hands. Reprisal attacks, violence, intimidation, destruction of property, hate speech, or any conduct that threatens public peace and national security are unlawful and will not be tolerated.”

The statement stressed that Nigeria remained governed by the rule of law and that all persons legally residing in the country were entitled to protection regardless of nationality.

“Nigeria remains a nation governed by the rule of law. All persons lawfully residing within the country, irrespective of nationality, are entitled to protection under the law. Consequently, any attempt to target South African nationals, diplomatic facilities, businesses, or other lawful interests within Nigeria will be treated as a criminal act and dealt with in accordance with extant laws.”

The police also warned against the circulation of unverified information capable of inflaming tensions, particularly on social media platforms.

According to the statement, “The Force urges the public to refrain from spreading unverified, inflammatory, or inciting information, especially on social media. Sharing false or provocative content can escalate tensions, undermine public order, and hinder diplomatic efforts to resolve the situation.”

To prevent possible security breaches, the Force said it had stepped up surveillance and deployments at strategic locations nationwide.

“The Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies, has implemented security measures and increased surveillance around critical national assets, foreign missions, and other key locations. Adequate deployments have been made to prevent any breakdown of law and order.”

Reaffirming its commitment to maintaining peace and security, the police said, “The Force remains fully committed to protecting lives and property, preserving public peace, and maintaining national security. The public is encouraged to remain calm, law-abiding, vigilant, and to continue their lawful activities without fear.”

The Force further expressed appreciation for the support of Nigerians and assured citizens that government institutions were working to manage the situation.

“The Nigeria Police Force appreciates the cooperation and understanding of all Nigerians and assures the public that relevant government institutions are actively managing the situation in the interest of national security and international relations.” (Sunday Tribune)

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