The Federal Government has intensified diplomatic efforts to safeguard Nigerians living in South Africa following the killing of two citizens, calling for immediate investigations and the prosecution of those responsible. In a statement issued on Sunday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government said the incidents underscore the need for stronger protection of foreign nationals amid growing security concerns.
According to the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, one of the victims, Emeka Charles Iroegbu, allegedly died on June 28, 2026, in Sunnyside, Pretoria, after an encounter with officers of the Tshwane Metro Police. The government also referred to the earlier killing of Nnaemeka Mathew Andrew Ekpenyong on April 20, 2026, alleging that the same officers were involved and noting that no arrests have been made despite claims that the identities of the officers are known to the South African Police Service.
The ministry further disclosed that another Nigerian, Musa Yunana Joe, popularly known as Big Joe, was killed in front of his business premises in Witbank, Mpumalanga, on June 28 by yet-to-be-identified attackers. According to the Federal Government, the incidents have heightened concerns about the safety of Nigerians and other foreign nationals living in South Africa, particularly against the backdrop of ongoing xenophobic demonstrations.
In response, Nigeria called on the South African authorities to carry out thorough investigations into the recent deaths and other unresolved cases involving Nigerian nationals. The government stressed that anyone accused of wrongdoing should be subjected to due process, insisting that allegations or suspicions should not replace lawful criminal investigations and fair judicial proceedings.
The Federal Government also expressed concern over recent public comments attributed to a South African government spokesperson regarding Nigerians leaving the country during the protests. It described such remarks as unacceptable, warning that statements capable of encouraging hostility against a particular nationality could worsen tensions and expose innocent people to further danger.
While reaffirming its commitment to resolving the matter through diplomatic engagement, the government advised Nigerians residing in South Africa to remain law-abiding, stay vigilant and avoid areas where violent protests are taking place. It also urged those in high-risk locations to relocate to safer neighbourhoods as discussions with South African authorities continue. The ministry added that the evacuation of registered Nigerians is ongoing.
The government extended its condolences to the families of the deceased and reiterated that it would continue engaging the highest levels of the South African government until justice is served. It also appealed to Nigerians at home to remain calm and refrain from retaliatory actions, maintaining that dialogue, respect for the rule of law and regional cooperation remain the preferred path to addressing the growing concerns over the safety of Nigerians abroad.
