The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has urged Nigerians living in South Africa to close their businesses and stay out of conflict as xenophobic attacks persist.

The warning coincides with escalating anti-foreigner demonstrations around South Africa, where some locals have demanded the closure of foreign companies and the expulsion of foreigners.

According to a statement issued by NiDCOM, the advise comes after a directive issued on Wednesday by the Nigerian consulate-general in Johannesburg. The panel claims that protests in East London, Cape Town, Durban, and KwaZulu-Natal have descended into violence, resulting in property destruction, looting, and injuries.

According to NiDCOM, information from the consulate suggests that new rallies are scheduled for Gauteng province between April 27 and 29. The demonstrators’ goal is to put pressure on the South African government over the presence of foreign nationals.

Nigerians were instructed by the commission to stay away from crowded areas, avoid protest organizations, and keep an eye on local media for up-to-date information on the security situation.

Noting that foreign-owned companies are frequently targeted during disturbances, NiDCOM also advised Nigerian business owners to close their establishments on April 27, which is designated as Freedom Day, and to think about staying closed on April 28 and 29.

The commission stated that it supports the stance of Ninikanwa O. Okey-Uche, Nigeria’s consul general in Johannesburg, and that the mission is still in operation and collaborating with South African law enforcement to protect Nigerians.

Bianca Ojukwu, the minister of state for international affairs, is discussing the matter with her South African colleague, according to NiDCOM.