Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has warned the public against carrying out reprisal attacks on South African nationals, businesses, diplomatic facilities and other interests in Nigeria following reports of xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.
The warning comes amid growing disturbance over the reported incidents and fears that tensions could trigger retaliatory actions within Nigeria.
Providing an update on security measures, the police said intelligence and security agencies reviewed the situation after a Joint Intelligence Board meeting held on 18 May 2026 and chaired by the National Security Adviser (NSA).
According to the Force Public Relations Officer (PRO), Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Anthony Placid, the Federal Government is engaging relevant authorities through diplomatic, intelligence and security channels to resolve the matter peacefully and protect Nigerians both at home and abroad.
While acknowledging public fears, the Force stressed that citizens must not resort to self-help or take the law into their own hands.
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"Reprisal attacks, violence, intimidation, destruction of property, hate speech or any action capable of threatening public peace and national security are unlawful and will not be tolerated," Placid said.
The police stated that Nigeria remains a country governed by the rule of law and that all persons lawfully residing within its borders, regardless of nationality, are entitled to protection under the law.
It added that any attempt to target South African nationals, diplomatic facilities, businesses or other lawful interests in Nigeria would be regarded as a criminal act and treated accordingly.
The Force also urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified, inflammatory or inciting information, particularly on social media, warning that such content could heighten tensions and undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts.
"To forestall any breakdown of law and order, the Nigeria Police Force, working in collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies, has strengthened security measures and increased surveillance around critical national assets, foreign missions, and other strategic locations across the country," police said.
The police stressed adequate deployments had been made to ensure the protection of lives and property and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and security.
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