The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed deep concern over the recent killings of three Nigerian nationals in South Africa. The incidents occurred between September 18 and 21, 2026, and the victims have been identified as Kenechukwu Igwemmadu, Olaniyi Olatunde, and Christian Nnaemeka. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the deaths have sparked fears of xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks involving Nigerians and other Africans in parts of South Africa.
The circumstances surrounding the deaths of the three Nigerians are varied. Igwemmadu died on September 18 after allegedly jumping from a building while attempting to escape police harassment and brutality in Bloemfontein. Olatunde was reportedly killed by an unidentified South African at a bar and grill in Mamelodi East, Pretoria, on September 20. Nnaemeka died on September 21 following an incident involving South African politician and investigative content creator, Xolani Khumalo, and members of his team in Primrose, Ekurhuleni.
The Federal Government has condemned the incidents and expressed concern over the safety and protection of foreign nationals in South Africa. The government also raised concerns over allegations of excessive or unlawful conduct by law enforcement personnel. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called on the relevant South African authorities to immediately investigate the deaths and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
The Nigerian government has urged its citizens living in South Africa to remain calm, vigilant, law-abiding, and security-conscious amid prevailing security concerns. The government has also advised Nigerians to maintain regular contact with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate General in Johannesburg for consular assistance when necessary.
The Federal Government has expressed condolences to the families, friends, and wider Nigerian community in South Africa over the deaths of Igwemmadu, Olatunde, and Nnaemeka. The government has also recalled that it has consistently engaged South Africa over recurring cases of xenophobia and Afrophobia.
Nigeria has previously raised the concerns with the Economic Community of West African States and the African Union. The government is actively considering further appropriate measures to secure the cooperation of the South African authorities in addressing these concerns and protecting the rights and safety of Nigerian nationals.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated that constructive dialogue remains the preferred means of addressing bilateral concerns. The government will continue to engage with South Africa to ensure that the rights and safety of Nigerian nationals are protected.
Key points
- The Federal Government of Nigeria condemns the killings of three Nigerian nationals in South Africa and calls for thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
- The government expresses concern over the safety and protection of foreign nationals in South Africa and allegations of excessive or unlawful conduct by law enforcement personnel.
- Nigeria urges its citizens living in South Africa to remain calm, vigilant, and security-conscious amid prevailing security concerns.
