The Nigerian government has strongly condemned the recent murder of three Nigerians in South Africa, bringing the total number of Nigerians killed in the country this year to at least 12. The Nigerian Consulate-General, Nnikanwa Okey-Uche, described the incidents as disturbing and demanded that South African authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the gruesome deaths. He emphasized that those responsible must be held accountable for their actions to address concerns about the safety of Nigerians and other foreigners in the country.
The three Nigerians killed were identified as Kenechukwu Igwemmadu, Olaniyi Olatunde, and Christian Nnaemeka. Their deaths have sparked outrage and concern about the growing violence against Nigerians and other Africans in South Africa. The Nigerian Ambassador-designate to South Africa, Lesotho and Eswatini, Femi Fani-Kayode, estimated that around 112 Nigerians have been killed since 2022, with 32 of the victims killed by members of the South African security forces.
Fani-Kayode also pointed out that no one has been brought to justice or convicted over any of the cases of Nigerians killed in South Africa. He appealed to the South African government to bring those responsible to justice and protect Nigerian citizens. The diplomatic row between Nigeria and South Africa has been escalating in recent months, with Nigeria summoning Pretoria's country representative and demanding an investigation into previous incidents.
The situation has led to a significant deterioration in relations between the two countries. In July, President Bola Tinubu snubbed a special South African delegation sent by President Cyril Ramaphosa, directing them to meet with the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye. The National Assembly has also suspended official visits to South Africa and directed its members and officials to boycott legislative activities hosted or organized by South African authorities.
The violence against Nigerians and other Africans in South Africa has led to a repatriation effort by several countries. Ghana was the first to begin the exercise, repatriating 300 nationals, while Mozambique has repatriated over 700 citizens, and Malawi, over 170. The latest batch of 105 Nigerians arrived in Nigeria last Thursday, comprising 83 adults and 23 students, and were received by state officials.
Private actors and religious bodies have also donated to help repatriate more citizens. The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) donated over $265,000 to purchase one-way tickets to evacuate 500 distressed Nigerians from South Africa. More than 1,640 Nigerians have been repatriated from South Africa since June, as the situation continues to unfold.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has attributed the situation to illegal migration and the actions of "opportunists" who are exploiting public sentiment to carry out "criminal acts." He promised that his government would crack down on the perpetrators, saying lawlessness cannot be tolerated. The incident has sparked international concern, with many calling for an end to the violence and for those responsible to be brought to justice.
Key points
- The Nigerian government demands investigation into the killing of three Nigerians in South Africa.
- Over 112 Nigerians have been killed in South Africa since 2022.
- Several countries have begun repatriating their citizens from South Africa due to the growing violence.
