Two Nigerians Killed in South Africa as Xenophobic Tension Flare
By Victor Idajili
Two Nigerians have been killed in South Africa in separate incidents linked to renewed anti-foreigner attacks, prompting alarm within the Nigerian community and urgent diplomatic action by the Federal Government.
The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg confirmed the deaths of Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, describing both cases as deeply troubling.
In a statement on Monday, Consul-General Ninikanwa Okey-Uche said Emmanuel died from injuries sustained after he was allegedly assaulted by members of the South African National Defence Force on April 20.
She added that Andrew was arrested on April 19 in Pretoria following a confrontation with Tshwane Metro Police officers. His body was later found in a mortuary.
Okey-Uche said the killings have shocked families, the Nigerian community, and diplomatic officials. The Consulate has lodged a formal complaint with the South African Police Service and urged the Independent Police Investigative Directorate to conduct a transparent and thorough probe.
“No individual should resort to self-help, regardless of any allegations involved,” she said, insisting that those responsible must face justice through due process.
The Consulate cautioned against profiling Nigerians as criminals and urged citizens in South Africa to remain calm and law-abiding amid rising tensions.
Nigerians in South Africa have called on the Federal Government to strengthen protection for its citizens abroad, describing it as a national duty.
The deaths come amid growing hostility toward foreigners. Videos circulating online show immigrants being intimidated during protests. In one incident, a Nigerian trader was confronted by demonstrators and told to leave the country despite explaining he had lived there for years.
In another case, CCTV footage reportedly captured an Ethiopian national being shot dead in Johannesburg, further raising fears over the safety of foreign nationals.
South African authorities said investigations into the incidents are ongoing but no arrests have been made.
The South African Police Service condemned the attacks, calling them unlawful and contrary to the country’s values of human rights, dignity, and equality.
