Nigerian Consulate Warns Nationals in South Africa of Upcoming Xenophobic Protests
The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg has issued a public advisory alerting Nigerian nationals residing in South Africa about planned nationwide xenophobic demonstrations set for May 4, 2026.
The notice, signed by Consul General Ambassador Ninikangwa Okei Uche, was disseminated on Sunday prior to the anticipated protests.
According to the consulate’s statement, information has surfaced indicating that xenophobic groups are rallying support for a nationwide shutdown across all nine provinces. This action aims to pressure the South African government to take decisive measures against foreign nationals living in the country.
The protest organizers claim that foreigners are perceived to benefit more from South Africa than its own citizens, calling for the immediate expulsion of all foreign nationals, regardless of their documentation status.
These groups have plans for a march that coincides with the scheduled protests, which focus on the removal of foreigners from the nation. While protests are anticipated throughout South Africa, specific gathering locations have not been confirmed in many cities. However, in Johannesburg, participants are expected to convene at Mary Fitzgerald Square in New Town.
The march is slated to take place from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on May 4, with a memorandum set to be presented at noon. Authorities anticipate considerable disruption, particularly in the central business districts of major cities including Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, and Durban.
The Consulate General urged Nigerians to remain cautious and to avoid confrontations during these demonstrations. The notice strongly advises Nigerians to refrain from engaging with or confronting protesters and emphasizes the importance of monitoring local media for updates and safety measures.
Business owners are similarly advised to take precautions. They are encouraged to consider closing their establishments during the protests, as there is no assurance that the demonstrations will proceed peacefully. Given the heightened tensions, foreign-owned businesses are viewed as potential targets for demonstrators.
The embassy reassured Nigerian nationals of its ongoing commitment to providing a full spectrum of consular services while actively seeking ways to enhance their safety. Furthermore, law enforcement agencies have been notified of the planned protests and are prepared to uphold the safety of both foreign nationals and their businesses.
This advisory comes amid rising xenophobic tensions, with at least 130 Nigerians reportedly registering for voluntary evacuation flights organized by the federal government. Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu indicated that this initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to prioritize the safety of Nigerians abroad. She noted that although protests from April 27 to 29, 2026, were largely peaceful, they necessitated a significant police presence in affected areas.
No major incidents of violence have been reported during these demonstrations; however, authorities did confirm separate cases, including the tragic deaths of two Nigerians, related to encounters with security forces. Further protests are anticipated between May 4 and May 8, prompting Nigerian officials to maintain diplomatic engagement with South African authorities to safeguard the public and mitigate escalating tensions.
