In the wake of recent attacks and violence, the High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Pretoria has issued a safety advisory to Nigerians in South Africa.
“In view of the recent developments in Eastern Cape Province and the current palpable tension in the country, the High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Pretoria, would like to issue the following advisory and enjoin all Nigerian Nationals living and working in the Republic of South Africa to observe the following safety protocols from now onwards: Be conscious and mindful of personal and individual safety,” the advisory read.
Moderate movement and limit interaction with strange persons or people.
Maintain a low profile at all times.
Remain law-abiding and pay respect to local laws and customs.
Suspend any form of socio-cultural activities forthwith.
Avoid inflammatory statements on social or mainstream media capable of heightening the current tensions.
Stay clear of any demonstration or counter-protests.
Refrain from indulging in unnecessary ostentation and flamboyance;
Report any likelinood of threat to life or personal safety to local police or security agencies.
All nationals have also been enjoined to consult either the High Commission in Pretoria or the Consulate General in Johannesburg if in doubt of any of the aforementioned.
This is coming after protesters on Monday torched vehicles and buildings allegedly belonging to foreign nationals in protest against the installation of a Nigerian king in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.
According to a report from an online media outlet, Newzroom Africa: “There is escalating violence in KuGompo City, Eastern Cape, where protesters torched foreign-owned vehicles and buildings in response to the controversial coronation of an Igbo traditional leader as local king, organized by the Nigerian community.”
Reports indicate that the unrest ignited after alleged attacks by foreign nationals on demonstrators, including stabbings and a vehicle ramming.
The unrest was reportedly triggered by the controversial installation of Nigerian Igbo leader Solomon Ogbonna Eziko as “Igwe Ndigbo” on March 24, 2026, which Eastern Cape authorities deemed disrespectful to local traditions and sovereignty.
Reports also noted risks of explosions from fuel and crowds vandalising a mosque, while affected foreign business owners emerge distraught.
Eziko is a Nigerian national from the Igbo ethnic group in southeastern Nigeria. He gained public attention in March 2026 after being installed by members of the local Nigerian/Igbo diaspora community in KuGompo (East London area), Eastern Cape province, South Africa, as “Igwe Ndigbo Na East London” (roughly translating to “Igbo King/Leader in East London”).
He has been active in the Nigerian community in East London, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Reports describe him as involved in philanthropic activities, supporting the less privileged, and promoting peace and unity among Nigerians in the area.
He has reportedly served in community leadership roles, such as chairman of aspects of the East London Nigerian/Igbo community
