Xenophobic: FG Demands Justice Over Slain Nigerians in South Africa

• The Federal Government has called for urgent investigations into the deaths of two Nigerians in South Africa, warning that rising xenophobic attacks could strain diplomatic ties.

The Federal Government has demanded urgent accountability from South Africa following the deaths of two Nigerians and a surge in anti-foreigner protests, warning that the situation threatens diplomatic relations and the safety of its citizens.

The government took the position after inviting South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lesoli Machele, to a meeting in Abuja with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Ahmed.

According to a statement by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the dispute centres on the deaths of Nnaemeka Matthew Ekpeyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro, allegedly linked to assaults by South African security personnel.

“It was reported that on 21 April 2026, Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew Ekpeyong died while in the custody of the Tshwane Metro Police Department.

Before his death, he reportedly sustained injuries attributed to personnel of the South African National Defence Force,” the ministry stated, adding that “Reports further indicate that a search of his residence yielded no incriminating evidence. The circumstances of his detention and death have raised concerns regarding the conduct of the security personnel involved.”

On the second case, it stated, “On 25 April 2026, Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro died at Livingstone Hospital in the Eastern Cape following an alleged assault by SANDF personnel.”

Beyond the deaths, Nigeria condemned what it described as growing hostility toward foreigners. “The Government of Nigeria notes with concern the ongoing protests in some parts of South Africa, requesting foreigners, especially blacks, to leave the country,” the statement read, adding that “Some of the videos of the violent protests are very disturbing.”

Officials also raised alarm over threats linked to groups such as Operation Dudula and figures including Jacinta Zuma, warning of a broader pattern of incitement. “The Government of Nigeria expressed strong concern over reported threats against foreign nationals… and emphasised the need for proactive measures to prevent incitement, intimidation, or violence,” the statement added.

The Federal Government insisted on immediate and transparent investigations, stating: “We therefore request thorough and impartial investigations into both deaths, including prompt sharing of preliminary findings and regular updates with the Government of Nigeria.” It also demanded “full cooperation in providing autopsy reports, post-mortem documentation, and relevant case files,” alongside accountability where wrongdoing is established.

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Nigeria further urged authorities in South Africa to guarantee the safety of its nationals, calling for “clear directives against profiling, adherence to due process during arrests and detention, and strict enforcement of professional conduct standards.” While acknowledging statements by South African leaders condemning violence, it stressed that such rhetoric must “translate into consistent action.”

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts have intensified, with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, engaging her South African counterpart over the crisis. The ministry also called for calm among Nigerians, noting protests at the South African High Commission in Abuja and warning against taking the law into their own hands.

Responding, Lesoli Machele said Pretoria would be informed of Nigeria’s concerns and maintained that the protests were not supported by the South African government, adding that steps would be taken “to ensure continuous peaceful relations between both countries.”