Nigeria's Consulate General in Johannesburg has issued a security advisory to its citizens ahead of nationwide anti-foreigner protests scheduled for Monday, May 4, 2026. The alert warns of demonstrations across South Africa's nine provinces targeting foreign nationals. Nigerians and other African migrants are increasingly fearful amid rising tensions.
The Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg issued the advisory on Sunday, signed by Consul General Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey-Uche. It stated that anti-foreigner groups are mobilising for demonstrations across South Africa's nine provinces, aiming to pressure the government to act against foreign nationals. Protesters allege foreigners benefit disproportionately from resources and demand both documented and undocumented migrants leave.
In Johannesburg, protesters are expected to gather at Mary Fitzgerald Square in Newtown between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., presenting a memorandum around noon. Disruptions may occur in major cities including Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, and Durban. "All Nigerian nationals are strongly advised to avoid engaging any demonstrators or confronting them," the advisory stated. Nigerian business owners were urged to temporarily close shops, as foreign-owned businesses could become targets.
The alert follows heightened xenophobic tensions, with the consulate confirming the deaths of two Nigerians: Amaramiro Emmanuel from injuries in an encounter with South African National Defence Force personnel on April 20, and Ekpenyong Andrew, found dead at Pretoria Central Mortuary after an altercation with Tshwane Metro Police. About 130 Nigerians have registered for voluntary repatriation flights arranged by Nigeria's Federal Government.
Experts including former Foreign Affairs spokesperson Ogbole Amedu Odey and analyst Dengiyefa Angalapu called for stronger consular protection, diplomatic engagement, and bilateral cooperation to address governance and economic issues fueling tensions. Nigeria has summoned South Africa's Acting High Commissioner, while authorities in both countries commit to maintaining order.
