By Ebi Kesiena
The Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg has confirmed and condemned the killing of two Nigerian nationals in South Africa, demanding a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible.
In a statement, Consul-General Amb. Ninikanwa Okey-Uche identified the victims as Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, who died in separate incidents involving South African security personnel within days of each other.
According to the Consulate, Emmanuel died on April 20 in Port Elizabeth after allegedly being beaten by members of the South African National Defence Force. Andrew, a motor mechanic and father of five, was arrested on April 19 in the Booysens area of Pretoria while returning home from work. His body was discovered the following day at the Pretoria Central Mortuary under circumstances suggesting foul play.
Authorities have since opened a murder case at Hercules Police Station in Pretoria, with investigations ongoing.
Okey-Uche described the incidents as deeply troubling, noting that they have sparked fear within the Nigerian community and heightened concerns over the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa.
She called on South African authorities to ensure a transparent and comprehensive probe, urging the Independent Police Investigative Directorate to fast-track its investigations and uncover the full circumstances surrounding the deaths.
“Regardless of any allegations, due process must be upheld. No one should take the law into their hands. Every individual is entitled to a fair hearing,” she said.
The Consul-General also decried what she termed the persistent stereotyping of Nigerians in South Africa, warning that such generalisations endanger innocent lives.
The development comes amid rising tensions, with intelligence reports indicating fresh anti-foreigner protests in Gauteng Province between April 27 and April 29. Previous demonstrations in parts of the country, including Cape Town and Durban, have reportedly turned violent, leading to looting and attacks on foreign nationals.
The Consulate said it is engaging South African authorities and providing support to the families of the deceased, while urging Nigerians in the country to remain calm and vigilant as the situation unfolds.
