The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed deep concern over the deaths of three Nigerian nationals in South Africa, calling for thorough, transparent, and expeditious investigations into the circumstances surrounding their deaths. The incidents occurred between September 18 and 21, 2026, and the deceased were identified as Kenechukwu Christopher Igwemmadu, Olaniyi Olaleye Olatunde, and Christian Hillary Nnaemeka. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government is deeply troubled by these incidents, particularly given the backdrop of xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks involving Nigerians and other Africans in parts of South Africa.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, provided details about the incidents. 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 of Nigeria condemned the incidents and expressed concern over the safety and protection of foreign nationals in South Africa, as well as the effectiveness of measures being taken by South African authorities to prevent targeted attacks and ensure accountability for violations against foreigners. The government also raised concerns over allegations of excessive or unlawful conduct by law enforcement personnel. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized 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 the relevant South African authorities to immediately investigate the deaths and ensure that anyone found culpable was brought to justice. The Federal Government of Nigeria emphasized that constructive dialogue remained its preferred means of addressing bilateral concerns, noting that it had consistently engaged South Africa over recurring cases of xenophobia and Afrophobia. Nigeria had previously raised these concerns with the Economic Community of West African States and the African Union.
In light of these latest developments, the Federal Government of Nigeria 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 government urged Nigerians living in South Africa to remain calm, vigilant, law-abiding, and security-conscious amid prevailing security concerns. Nigerians were also advised 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 expressed condolences to the families, friends, and wider Nigerian community in South Africa over the deaths of Igwemmadu, Olatunde, and Nnaemeka. The government reiterated its commitment to securing the safety and well-being of Nigerian nationals abroad. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to engage with the South African authorities to ensure that the necessary actions are taken to prevent such incidents in the future.
The incidents have sparked concerns about the safety of foreign nationals in South Africa, particularly in light of recurring cases of xenophobia and Afrophobia. The Federal Government of Nigeria will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary steps to protect the rights and interests of Nigerian nationals. The government has assured that it will work closely with the South African authorities to ensure that those responsible for the deaths are brought to justice.
Key points
- The Federal Government of Nigeria has condemned the deaths of three Nigerian nationals in South Africa and called for thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
- The incidents have sparked concerns about the safety of foreign nationals in South Africa, particularly in light of recurring cases of xenophobia and Afrophobia.
- The government has urged Nigerians living in South Africa to remain calm, vigilant, law-abiding, and security-conscious amid prevailing security concerns.
