FG Confronts Rising Anti-Foreigner Tensions in South Africa, Demands Probe into Deaths of Nigerians
Oru Leonard
The Federal Government has raised alarm over escalating tensions in South Africa, where protests targeting foreign nationals—particularly Nigerians—have intensified, prompting urgent diplomatic engagement.
In a press statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, the Permanent Secretary, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, disclosed that Nigeria summoned the Acting High Commissioner of South Africa, Lesoli Machele, for a high-level meeting on Monday.
The government expressed deep concern over disturbing videos circulating online, which depict violence and hostility against Africans, including Nigerians. It noted that such developments undermine the longstanding bilateral ties between both countries.
More critically, Nigeria confirmed reports from its diplomatic missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg regarding the deaths of two Nigerian nationals—Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew Ekpeyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro. The victims reportedly died following alleged assaults while in the custody of South African security agencies.
According to the Ministry, Ekpeyong died on April 21, 2026, while in the custody of the Tshwane Metro Police Department, while Amaramiro passed away on April 25, 2026, at Livingstone Hospital in the Eastern Cape. The incidents have triggered serious concerns over the conduct and professionalism of security personnel.
While acknowledging statements by South African authorities condemning violence and extrajudicial actions,
Nigeria stressed that such assurances must be matched with concrete steps. It called for thorough, transparent, and impartial investigations into the deaths, alongside timely release of findings, autopsy reports, and full legal access for the victims’ families.
The Federal Government also urged authorities in South Africa to act decisively against threats, incitement, and violence directed at foreign nationals, emphasizing the need to protect the rights and dignity of Nigerians living lawfully in the country.
Reacting to domestic developments, the Ministry acknowledged a recent protest in Abuja by a group of Nigerians but appealed for calm, urging citizens to refrain from taking the law into their hands.
It further revealed that diplomatic efforts are ongoing at the highest levels, including a recent telephone conversation between Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and her South African counterpart. Both sides reportedly agreed to intensify collaboration toward a lasting resolution of recurring tensions.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to international obligations, the Permanent Secretary also assured that all diplomatic missions and personnel within Nigeria remain fully protected.
In her response, Ms. Machele assured that Nigeria’s concerns would be relayed to Pretoria, emphasizing that the protests do not reflect the position of the South African Government. She pledged that steps would be taken to address the situation and sustain peaceful bilateral relations.
The Ministry reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad, calling on South African authorities to restore confidence, ensure accountability, and uphold the safety and dignity of all Africans in the spirit of unity and brotherhood.
