Nigeria to Lock Horns with South Africa Over Xenophobic Killings of Its Citizens, Says Enough Is Enough
The Federal Government has condemned the killing of Nigerian nationals in South Africa, calling for thorough investigations and the prosecution of those responsible.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, expressed concern over the safety of Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa following recent incidents of violence.
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 death of another Nigerian, Nnaemeka Mathew Andrew Ekpenyong, who was allegedly killed on April 20, 2026. It noted that no arrests have been made in connection with the incident despite reports that the identities of the officers involved are known to the South African Police Service.
It further disclosed that another Nigerian, Musa Yunana Joe, popularly known as Big Joe, was shot dead in front of his shop in Witbank, Mpumalanga, on June 28 by unidentified gunmen.
The Federal Government said the incidents have heightened concerns over the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa and urged the country’s authorities to thoroughly investigate the killings, as well as other unresolved cases involving Nigerian citizens.
The ministry also expressed concern over a recent televised statement attributed to a South African government spokesperson, who reportedly asked Nigerians leaving the country due to anti-foreigner protests to disclose the locations where illegal drugs were allegedly hidden.
Describing the reported remarks as unacceptable, the ministry warned that public statements capable of stereotyping an entire community could inflame tensions and fuel xenophobic sentiments.
It also criticised groups accused of inciting hostility against foreign nationals and called on South African authorities to take decisive action against hate speech and violence targeting migrants.
The Federal Government reiterated that all criminal allegations should be addressed through due legal process, stressing that every suspect is entitled to a fair hearing and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
It sympathised with the families of the deceased and reaffirmed its commitment to sustained diplomatic engagement with the South African government to ensure justice is served.
The ministry advised Nigerians residing in South Africa to remain calm, law-abiding and security-conscious. It urged them to avoid areas prone to violence and, where necessary, relocate to safer neighbourhoods while diplomatic efforts continue.
It also 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, regardless of nationality.
The Federal Government warned that it would continue to monitor developments and consider appropriate diplomatic measures if attacks against Nigerians persist. It also appealed to Nigerians at home to refrain from retaliatory actions and allow diplomatic channels to address the situation.