The Nigerian government has issued fresh safety guidelines for its citizens in South Africa, following violent protests against the coronation of Solomon Ogbonna Eziko as an Igbo traditional ruler in Pretoria.
In an advisory released on Monday (March 30), the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa urged nationals to “maintain a low profile” and avoid making “inflammatory statements” on social media that could escalate tensions between the two countries.
The advisory also called on Nigerians to remain vigilant, prioritize their personal safety, and limit interactions with strangers. They were further warned against participating in any counter-protests on foreign soil and encouraged to report any threats to life or property to the relevant authorities.
The protests, led by the South African political party ActionSA, opposed Eziko’s installation as an Igbo monarch, arguing that such a move undermines South Africa’s sovereignty. The demonstrations turned violent, with social media videos showing protesters vandalizing buildings and setting vehicles on fire.
According to local outlet Newsroom Afrika, “Protesters have torched vehicles and buildings allegedly belonging to foreign nationals in protest against the installation of a Nigerian king in the Eastern Cape.”