The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned the killing of three Nigerian nationals in separate incidents in South Africa between September 18 and 21, 2026. The government expressed grave concern over the reports of the deaths and demanded thorough, transparent, and expeditious investigations. Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, signed the statement, emphasizing the government's commitment to ensuring the safety and protection of Nigerian citizens abroad.
The first incident occurred on September 18, 2026, when Kenechukwu Christopher Igwemmadu died after allegedly jumping from a building while trying to escape police harassment in Bloemfontein. The second incident happened on September 20, 2026, when Olaniyi Olaleye Olatunde was reportedly killed by an unidentified South African at a bar and grill in Mamelodi East, Pretoria. The third incident took place on September 21, 2026, when Christian Hillary Nnaemeka died following an incident involving South African politician and investigative content creator, Xolani Khumalo.
The Federal Government warned that any use of interrogation or enforcement methods that contravene established legal and human rights standards is unacceptable and must be thoroughly investigated. The government called on relevant South African authorities to immediately undertake thorough, transparent, and expeditious investigations into the circumstances surrounding these deaths. The government also urged South African authorities to ensure that any persons found culpable are brought to justice in accordance with South African law.
The incidents have raised serious concerns regarding the safety and protection of foreign nationals and the effectiveness of measures being taken by relevant South African authorities to prevent targeted attacks and ensure accountability. The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to constructive dialogue as a preferred means of addressing bilateral concerns. Nigeria has previously brought the concerns to the attention of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS and the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union.
The government is actively considering further appropriate measures to secure cooperation from South African authorities in addressing these concerns and protecting the rights and safety of Nigerian nationals. The Federal Government urged Nigerians resident in South Africa to remain calm, vigilant, law-abiding, and security-conscious, particularly in view of prevailing security concerns, including reported incidents of xenophobic and afrophobic attacks.
The High Commission of Nigeria in Pretoria and the Consulate General in Johannesburg are available to provide consular assistance to Nigerians in South Africa whenever necessary. The government prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the late Igwemmadu, Olatunde, and Nnaemeka and extended deepest sympathies to their families and the wider Nigerian community in South Africa.
The Federal Government's demand for justice and thorough investigations into the killings is a significant step towards ensuring the safety and protection of Nigerian citizens abroad. The incidents have highlighted the need for continued dialogue and cooperation between Nigeria and South Africa to address the recurring challenges of xenophobia and afrophobia.
Key points
- The Federal Government of Nigeria demands thorough, transparent, and expeditious investigations into the killings of three Nigerian nationals in South Africa.
- The incidents have raised concerns regarding the safety and protection of foreign nationals and the effectiveness of measures being taken by South African authorities.
- Nigeria is actively considering further measures to secure cooperation from South African authorities in addressing these concerns and protecting the rights and safety of Nigerian nationals.
