FG Condemns Killing Of Nigerians In South Africa

The Federal Government has raised serious concerns over ongoing anti-foreigner protests in parts of South Africa, where demonstrators are reportedly calling for the expulsion of foreign nationals, particularly Black migrants.

In a statement by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria confirmed that its missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg are closely monitoring the situation.

The Ministry also confirmed the deaths of two Nigerians, Nnaemeka Matthew Ekpenyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro, allegedly linked to actions of South African security agencies.

Ekpenyong reportedly died on April 21, 2026, while in custody of the Tshwane Metro Police Department, while Amaramiro died on April 25 at Livingstone Hospital in the Eastern Cape following an alleged assault.

The ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Dunoma Umar- Ahmed, has since met with South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lesoli Machele, to convey the government’s concerns.

While acknowledging statements by President Cyril Ramaphosa condemning attacks on foreigners, Nigeria called for concrete action, including thorough and transparent investigations into the deaths.

The government also raised concerns over threats linked to the group’s Operation in Dudula, urging South African authorities to prevent further violence and protect foreign nationals.

Nigeria demanded access to autopsy reports and legal proceedings for the victims’ families, stressing the need for accountability.

It also urged South Africa to ensure the safety and rights of Nigerians living lawfully in the country.

The Federal Government welcomed the existing bilateral early warning mechanism but called for its swift implementation to prevent escalation.

Meanwhile, Nigerians have been urged to remain calm and avoid retaliatory actions, following a minor protest at the South African High Commission in Abuja.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has also engaged her South African counterpart to strengthen diplomatic ties.

In response, the Acting High Commissioner assured that Nigeria’s concerns would be relayed to authorities in Pretoria, noting that the protests are not backed by the South African government.

PR/Uju Oparaji