The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has called on Nigerians to remain calm and refrain from engaging in any form of reprisal attacks following reports of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Anthony Okon Placid, the police said security and intelligence agencies had reviewed the situation and assured the public that there was no cause for alarm.
According to the statement, the review followed a Joint Intelligence Board meeting held on May 18, 2026, and chaired by the National Security Adviser.
“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,” the statement said.
While acknowledging public concerns over the reported attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, the police warned against any form of retaliation.
“Reprisal attacks, violence, intimidation, destruction of property, hate speech, or any conduct that threatens public peace and national security is unlawful and will not be tolerated,” the Force stated.
The police emphasised that Nigeria remains a nation governed by the rule of law and that all persons lawfully residing in the country, regardless of nationality, are entitled to legal protection.
“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 statement added.
The Force also cautioned Nigerians against spreading unverified or inflammatory information, particularly on social media, warning that such actions could escalate tensions and undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts.
“Sharing false or provocative content can escalate tensions, undermine public order, and hinder diplomatic efforts to resolve the situation,” the police warned.
To forestall any breakdown of law and order, the NPF disclosed that it had strengthened security measures around critical national assets, foreign missions, and other strategic locations across the country.
“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,” the statement noted.
Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, the Force urged citizens to remain law-abiding and continue their lawful activities without fear.
“The Force remains fully committed to protecting lives and property, preserving public peace, and maintaining national security,” DCP Placid said.
The police also expressed appreciation for the cooperation and understanding of Nigerians, assuring the public that relevant government institutions were actively managing the situation in the interest of national security and international relations.
