The Federal Government has strongly condemned the killing of two Nigerian nationals in South Africa, describing the incidents as disturbing evidence of the growing insecurity facing Nigerians and other foreign nationals in the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the government called on South African authorities to immediately investigate the killings and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
According to the ministry, one of the victims, Emeka Charles Iroegbu, was allegedly killed by officers of the Tshwane Metro Police in Sunnyside, Pretoria, on June 28 after reportedly being subjected to “gruesome interrogation techniques.”
The government also recalled the earlier alleged extra-judicial killing of Nnaemeka Mathew Andrew Ekpenyong on April 20, 2026, by the same police officers, noting that no arrests have been made despite the identities of the officers being known to the South African Police Service.
The second victim, Musa Yunana Joe, popularly known as “Big Joe,” was reportedly shot dead by yet-to-be-identified criminals in front of his shop in Witbank, Mpumalanga, also on June 28.
The Federal Government expressed concern that the killings occurred amid renewed xenophobic attacks against foreigners in South Africa, warning against attempts to stereotype law-abiding Nigerians as criminals.
It further alleged a pattern of complicity by some security operatives, particularly members of the Tshwane Metro Police, arguing that the repeated incidents raise questions about state responsibility under international law.
Nigeria also condemned recent remarks by a South African government spokesperson, who reportedly challenged Nigerians leaving the country because of xenophobic protests to reveal where illegal drugs were hidden.
The ministry described the comments as derogatory, unprofessional and capable of inciting hatred and violence against Nigerians living in South Africa. It also criticised anti-immigrant groups, including March on March and Operation Dudula, accusing them of promoting violence and hate against fellow Africans.
The Federal Government reiterated that regardless of allegations against any individual, due process and the rule of law must prevail, stressing that every suspect deserves a fair hearing before a competent court.
While sympathising with the families of the deceased, the government assured that it would continue diplomatic engagement with South African authorities until justice is achieved.
It also urged Nigerians residing in South Africa to remain calm, law-abiding and security conscious by avoiding violence-prone areas and relocating to safer neighbourhoods where necessary, as diplomatic efforts continue to address rising Afrophobia.
The ministry noted that South African nationals and businesses continue to operate safely in Nigeria without harassment, stressing that South Africa has a corresponding obligation to guarantee the safety and property of Nigerians legally residing within its borders.
It warned that if the attacks and alleged systematic targeting of Nigerians persist, Nigeria would consider activating other diplomatic options available to it.
The government also appealed to Nigerians at home not to resort to reprisals against South African citizens or businesses, reaffirming its commitment to resolving the crisis through dialogue, African solidarity and peaceful diplomacy.
The ministry added that the evacuation of registered Nigerians willing to leave South Africa is ongoing.
