The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned the recent killing of two Nigerian nationals in South Africa calling on the South African authorities to launch thorough investigations and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
The demand was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, who expressed deep concern over the growing threat to the safety of Nigerians and other foreign nationals amid rising anti-immigrant tensions in South Africa.
According to the ministry, one of the victims, Emeka Charles Iroegbu, was allegedly killed by officers of the Tshwane Metro Police in Sunnyside, Pretoria, on June 28, 2026.
The ministry also recalled the killing of Nnaemeka Mathew Andrew Ekpenyong, who was allegedly shot dead on April 20, 2026. It noted that despite reports indicating that the identities of the officers involved are known to the South African Police Service, no arrests have been made.
In a separate incident, Musa Yunana Joe, popularly known as Big Joe, was reportedly shot dead by unidentified gunmen outside his shop in Witbank, Mpumalanga, on June 28.
The Federal Government said the incidents have heightened fears over the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa and urged the country’s authorities to conduct comprehensive investigations into the killings as well as other unresolved attacks involving Nigerian citizens.
It also expressed concern over a recent televised statement reportedly made by a South African government spokesperson urging Nigerians leaving the country following anti-foreigner protests to disclose the locations of illegal drugs allegedly hidden by migrants.
Describing the reported remarks as unacceptable, the ministry warned that statements capable of stereotyping an entire nationality could inflame tensions, fuel xenophobia and further endanger innocent Nigerians residing in the country.
The government further condemned the activities of groups accused of inciting hostility against foreign nationals and called on South African authorities to take decisive action against hate speech, violence and acts of intimidation targeting migrants.
Reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law, the Federal Government stressed that allegations of criminal conduct must be handled strictly through lawful procedures, noting that every individual is entitled to due process and a fair hearing regardless of nationality
While extending condolences to the families of the deceased, the government pledged to sustain diplomatic engagement with South Africa to ensure justice is served and the safety of Nigerians is guaranteed.
It also advised Nigerians residing in South Africa to remain calm, law-abiding and vigilant, urging them to avoid violence-prone areas and relocate to safer neighborhoods where necessary as diplomatic efforts continue.
The ministry noted that South African citizens and businesses continue to operate freely in Nigeria, stressing that South Africa has an obligation under international law to protect all persons lawfully residing within its borders, irrespective of nationality.
The Federal Government added that it would continue to monitor developments closely and consider appropriate diplomatic measures should attacks against Nigerians persist, while urging citizens at home to refrain from retaliatory actions and allow diplomatic channels to address the situation.
