The South African High Commission in Nigeria has shut down its operation.
This is to ensure safety of lives and properties of its employees in the country.
The shutting down, Lunga Ngqengelele of South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Co-operations, informed a South African broadcaster, ENCA, would be temporary.
The action was said to have been informed by reports of attempts to attack the commission.
“We received reports that some of the people in Nigeria and Zambia have tried to attack some of the businesses belonging to South Africans in their countries.
“Out of safety and of course concerns for the employees of the embassy, a decision was taken that we temporarily shut down while we are assessing the situation and ensure that no one is injured in the process,” Ngqengelele said.
He however said that the commission had been assured of the protection of the businesses belonging to Sout Africa, by the government.
Following the latest attacks on foreigners, particularly Nigerians, some Nigerians have attempted a retaliation with moves to attack South African businesses in Nigeria.
Shoprite, MTN, DStv and a few other companies have been targets of attacks.
Some Nigerians have in annoyance, pulled out of the World Economic Forum in South Africa.
Already, Nigeria has recalled its ambassador to South Africa, Kabiru Bala.
President Muhammadu Buhari has dispatched a special envoy to South Africa over the issue.
