The Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation Africa (NIDO Africa) has urged Nigerians living in South Africa to remain vigilant following reports of rising xenophobic tensions in parts of the country.
The organisation issued the advisory on Friday amid concerns over renewed hostility towards foreign nationals.
Speaking with First Daily News, the Continental Chairman of NIDO Africa, Jude Osakwe, said the group was closely monitoring developments in South Africa and called on Nigerians to take precautionary measures to protect themselves and their property.
According to him, Nigerians should avoid areas prone to violence and stay away from confrontational gatherings.
He also advised Nigerians to remain in contact with their families and community associations while cooperating with South African security agencies.
Osakwe urged Nigerians facing threats or attacks to immediately report such incidents to the South African Police Service and the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria.
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“NIDO Africa is concerned about the safety and wellbeing of Nigerians in South Africa. We urge our people to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding,” he said.
The organisation also called on the South African government to protect all residents regardless of nationality, describing xenophobia as a violation of human rights and a threat to African unity.
NIDO Africa further appealed to the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria to engage South African authorities to ensure the safety of Nigerians living in the country.
The group said it would continue to monitor the situation and take further steps if necessary.