The federal government has issued fresh guidelines to safeguard Nigerians in South Africa following violent protests opposing the coronation of Solomon Ogbonna Eziko as an Igbo monarch in Pretoria.

In an advisory issued on Monday, the High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria urged citizens residing in South Africa to “maintain a low profile” and “avoid inflammatory statements” on social media that could further strain already tense relations between both countries.

The advisory, dated March 30, advised Nigerians to be alert and conscious of their personal safety while limiting interaction with strangers.

The government further cautioned against participation in any counter-protests on foreign soil and urged citizens to promptly report any threats to life or property to relevant authorities.

Members of ActionSA have opposed Mr Eziko’s installation as an Igbo traditional ruler in Pretoria, arguing that such a move undermines South Africa’s sovereignty.

The protests later turned violent, with videos circulating on social media showing demonstrators vandalising buildings and torching vehicles in Gu Kumpo city.

“Protesters have torched vehicles and buildings allegedly belonging to foreign nationals in protest against the installation of a Nigerian king in the Eastern Cape,” stated a report by local media, Newsroom Afrika,