Xenophobic attacks: FG seeks justice, safety for Nigerians in South Africa

The Federal Government has demanded urgent accountability from South Africa following the deaths of two Nigerians and a wave of anti-foreigner protests, warning that the incidents threaten diplomatic relations and the safety of its nationals.

FG issued the position after summoning South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lesoli Machele, to a meeting in Abuja on Monday with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Ahmed.

According to a statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, at the centre of the dispute are the deaths of Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew Ekpeyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro, both 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.

The government added 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 escalating 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 warned that threats linked to groups such as Operation Dudula and figures including Jacinta Zuma point to a broader pattern of incitement.

“The Government of Nigeria expressed strong concern over reported threats against foreign nationals in South Africa, including those attributed to a group reportedly led by Jacinta Zuma, and other groups such as Operation Dudula and emphasised the need for proactive measures to prevent incitement, intimidation, or violence,” the statement read.

FG insisted on immediate and transparent investigations into the deaths.

“We therefore request thorough and impartial investigations into both deaths, including prompt sharing of preliminary findings and regular updates with the Government of Nigeria,” the ministry stated.

It also demanded “full cooperation in providing autopsy reports, post-mortem documentation, and relevant case files, and in facilitating access to legal processes for the families of the deceased.

“As a precautionary measure, Nigeria emphasises the need for accountability where wrongdoing is established, including appropriate disciplinary and prosecutorial action against implicated personnel.”

FG further pressed South African authorities to guarantee the safety of Nigerians living in the country, calling for “clear directives against profiling, adherence to due process during arrests and detention, and strict enforcement of professional conduct standards by relevant agencies.”

While acknowledging statements by South African leaders condemning violence, it warned that rhetoric must “translate into consistent action.”

Diplomatic engagement has intensified, with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, holding talks with her South African counterpart to address the crisis.

The ministry urged restraint despite rising anger.

“Finally, the ministry called on the South African Government to implement decisive steps to prevent further violence against Nigerians, rebuild confidence within the Nigerian community, and ensure Nigerians can live in South Africa safely and with dignity.

“On the issue of growing discontent on the part of Nigerians over the unacceptable treatment of Nigerians, the ministry is aware of the protest by a small group of Nigerians at the South African High Commission in Abuja on Friday, but calls for calm and any attempt by individuals or groups to take the law into their own hands.

“Government is engaging the South African authorities at the highest level to address the concerns raised regarding the protection of Nigerians,” the statement added.

Responding, Machele said Pretoria would be informed of Nigeria’s position 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.”