The Nigeria Police Force has warned the public against carrying out reprisal attacks on South African nationals, businesses, diplomatic facilities, and other South African interests in Nigeria following reports of xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, saying any such action would be treated as a criminal offence.

Force Public Relations Officer Deputy Commissioner of Police Anthony Placid said the government was actively engaging relevant authorities and stakeholders through diplomatic, intelligence, and security channels to resolve the situation peacefully and safeguard Nigerian interests both at home and abroad. He said a Joint Intelligence Board meeting chaired by the National Security Adviser had reviewed the security implications and determined the necessary response measures.

The police said citizens must not resort to self-help or take the law into their own hands, and that reprisal attacks, violence, intimidation, destruction of property, hate speech, or any action threatening public peace and national security were unlawful and would not be tolerated. The statement reminded Nigerians that all persons lawfully residing within the country’s borders, regardless of nationality, were entitled to protection under the law.

The police also warned against spreading unverified, inflammatory, or inciting information on social media platforms, saying false or provocative content could heighten tensions, undermine public order, and complicate ongoing diplomatic efforts. The force said it had strengthened security measures and increased surveillance around critical national assets, foreign missions, and other strategic locations across the country in collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies.