The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a stern warning against reprisal attacks on South Africans residing in Nigeria, following recent xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa. In a statement released on Sunday, police spokesman Anthony Placid emphasized that anyone targeting South African nationals or businesses in Nigeria will face the full force of the law.
Police Response to Concerns
Placid noted that the NPF had received concerns about potential retaliatory attacks on South African nationals, businesses, and interests in Nigeria. He stressed that while the attacks on Nigerians in South Africa are concerning, the public must not take the law into their own hands.
“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 statement read.
Rule of Law and Protection
The police spokesperson reiterated that Nigeria is a nation governed by the rule of law. 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,” Placid added.
Call for Responsible Conduct
Placid urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified, inflammatory, or inciting information, especially on social media. He warned that false or provocative content could escalate tensions, undermine public order, and hinder diplomatic efforts to resolve the situation.
Security Measures Implemented
The police are collaborating with other security and intelligence agencies to prevent any breakdown of law and order. Security measures and increased surveillance have been implemented around critical national assets, foreign missions, and other key locations. “Adequate deployments have been made to prevent any breakdown of law and order,” Placid explained.
