.jpeg)
Date: March 31, 2026 l Reporter: Musa Muhammad
The Nigerian High Commission in South Africa has issued an urgent advisory to Nigerians residing in the country, directing them to suspend all socio-cultural activities following rising tensions and violent unrest linked to a controversial coronation event.
In the advisory released on Tuesday, the commission warned of a deteriorating security situation, urging Nigerians to remain cautious and prioritize their safety as tensions escalate in parts of the country.
The diplomatic mission specifically instructed citizens to “suspend all socio-cultural activities and avoid making inflammatory statements capable of escalating tensions,” particularly on social media and public platforms.
The warning follows violent protests in the Eastern Cape region, reportedly triggered by the alleged coronation of a Nigerian national as an Igbo traditional ruler, an incident that sparked outrage among local groups and community leaders.
According to reports, what began as a peaceful demonstration quickly turned violent, with clashes leading to stabbings, destruction of property, and vehicles being set ablaze. Emergency services and security forces were deployed to the scene, while police used crowd-control measures to restore order.
Authorities also confirmed that several individuals were injured during the unrest, with at least one person reportedly stabbed amid the chaos.
In response to the situation, the Nigerian High Commission advised citizens to maintain a low profile, limit unnecessary movement, and remain law-abiding while respecting local laws and customs.
The commission described the situation as one of “palpable tension,” emphasizing the need for Nigerians to avoid confrontations and interactions that could further inflame the already volatile atmosphere.
The incident comes amid growing concerns over xenophobic sentiments in South Africa, where migrants, including Nigerians, have previously been targeted during periods of social unrest.
As the situation continues to unfold, Nigerian authorities say they are closely monitoring developments while urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any threats to appropriate authorities.