The Department of International Relations announced on Wednesday that it is in consultation with the High Commission in Nigeria on whether to issue a travel alert.
The oil rich country has been hit by an indefinite violent strike against President Goodluck Jonathan government’s decision to end the fuel subsidy, which has more than doubled petrol costs and seen food prices soar, while millions of Nigerians live on less than R16 a day.
The United Kingdom (UK) issued a travel alert in the wake of the deaths of at least 13 people who were caught in the ongoing clashes which started on Monday.
“The Department of International Relations continues to monitor the situation with a particular interest in South Africans. Our advice would be that they keep in touch with our mission and they keep updated with regards to development,” said Clayson Monyela.
Meanwhile, in Nigeria, a policeman died from the violent strike over petrol prices and another four Christians were killed during religious clashes.
The industrial action will enter its third day on Thursday, with unions warning that they will halt output in Africa’s top crude producer.
Warnings of a looming civil war in Nigeria have increased in magnitude and volume as the country sinks deeper into crisis.
Jonathan is facing his toughest challenge since he was elected last year, as concern mounts in the global oil market.
His government has labelled the general strike illegal and threatened to withhold pay.
Gangs of youths have joined protesters in the streets, but have been harassing drivers for money.
The attacks have included the killings of four Christian Igbos by suspected members of the Islamist group Boko Haram.
A video also emerged on youtube purporting to show suspected Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau, sending a message to the president.