The Nigerian Government has strongly condemned the recent killing of two Nigerian nationals in South Africa.
In a statement signed by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the first victim, Emeka Charles Iroegbu, was allegedly killed on 28th June 2026 in Sunnyside, Pretoria, by officers of the Tshwane Metro Police during an interrogation involving excessive force.
The same officers are also alleged to be responsible for the extra-judicial killing of another Nigerian, Nnaemeka Mathew Andrew Ekpenyong, on 20th April 2026.
No arrests have been made in that case, despite the identities of the four officers involved being known to the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The second victim, Musa Yunana Joe, popularly known as “Big Joe”, was shot dead in front of his shop on 28th June 2026 in Witbank, Mpumalanga, by yet-to-be-identified assailants.
The Ministry noted that these killings are occurring amid increasing reports of the targeting of foreigners in South Africa. This raises serious concerns about deliberate attempts to stereotype and criminalise law-abiding, hardworking Nigerians. It also raises fundamental questions regarding the safety and security of Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa.
The recurring pattern of such incidents, particularly those involving state security operatives, suggests possible complicity and raises questions of state responsibility under international law.
Data collated by Nigerian Missions provides sufficient grounds for accountability.
While acknowledging South Africa’s internal security challenges, including high crime rates, Nigeria maintains that extra-judicial killings and mob actions are unacceptable. Nigerians in the diaspora have consistently upheld the rule of law and contributed positively to host communities. It is therefore unjust to make foreigners scapegoats for systemic socio-economic challenges that require policy responses from the authorities.
The Federal Government also expressed concern over recent public statements by some South African officials, including televised remarks urging Nigerians departing South Africa amid xenophobic protests to “show where they hide illegal drugs.” Such unguarded and generalised remarks by public officials constitute hate speech and risk inciting further violence against members of the Nigerian community.
Similarly, the activities of groups such as March and March and operation Dudula, which promote hate and violence against fellow Africans, are condemned. Perpetrators of such incitement will be held to account under regional and international law.
The Federal Government therefore calls on the South African authorities to Conduct immediate, transparent, and impartial investigations into the killings of Iroegbu, Ekpenyong, Joe, and other pending cases involving Nigerian nationals.
Ensure that all perpetrators are identified, prosecuted, and brought to justice without delay and uphold due process and the presumption of innocence. Allegations must be tested in a court of law, not on the streets.
The Government extends its deepest sympathies to the families of the deceased and reassures them of Nigeria’s commitment to pursue justice through all diplomatic channels.
In view of the volatile security situation and ongoing xenophobic and Afrophobic demonstrations, Nigerian nationals in South Africa are advised to remain calm, law-abiding, and security conscious. They are also urged to avoid high-risk areas and to cooperate with Nigerian Mission officials. The evacuation process for registered Nigerians who wish to return home is ongoing.
Nigeria reiterates that numerous South African citizens and businesses operate peacefully in Nigeria without harassment. It is the responsibility of the South African Government to guarantee the safety and protection of all foreign nationals, including Nigerians, residing within its territory. The systematic targeting of Nigerians is unacceptable.
The Government of Nigeria places the South African authorities on notice that should this pattern persist, all options available under bilateral, regional, and international frameworks remain on the table.
Finally, the Federal Government urges the Nigerian public to remain calm and refrain from retaliatory actions.
Nigeria remains committed to dialogue, diplomacy, and African solidarity as the basis for resolving this unfortunate situation.
(Editor: Nkoli Omhoudu)
