The Federal Government has demanded urgent accountability from South Africa following the deaths of two Nigerians and a surge in anti-foreigner protests, warning that the incidents could strain diplomatic relations and endanger its citizens.
The position was made known after Nigeria summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lesoli Machele, to a meeting in Abuja with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Ahmed.
In a statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the government expressed concern over the deaths of Nnaemeka Matthew Ekpeyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro, both allegedly linked to assaults by South African security personnel.
According to the statement, Ekpeyong died on April 21, 2026, while in the custody of the Tshwane Metro Police Department after reportedly sustaining injuries attributed to personnel of the South African National Defence Force. Authorities said no incriminating evidence was found during a search of his residence.
Similarly, Amaramiro was reported to have died on April 25, 2026, at Livingstone Hospital following an alleged assault by SANDF personnel.
Beyond the deaths, Nigeria condemned what it described as rising hostility toward foreign nationals, particularly amid protests calling for foreigners to leave the country.
The government raised concerns over threats linked to groups such as Operation Dudula and individuals including Jacinta Zuma, warning of a broader pattern of incitement and intimidation.
Nigeria has called for immediate, thorough, and transparent investigations into the deaths, demanding the prompt release of preliminary findings, autopsy reports, and full cooperation in legal processes involving the victims’ families.
It also stressed the need for accountability where wrongdoing is established, including disciplinary and prosecutorial action against any implicated personnel.
Furthermore, the Federal Government urged South African authorities to ensure the safety of Nigerians residing in the country by enforcing due process during arrests, preventing profiling, and upholding professional conduct among security agencies.
While acknowledging statements by South African officials condemning violence, Nigeria insisted that such assurances must be backed by concrete action.
Meanwhile, diplomatic engagements have intensified, with Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, holding talks with her South African counterpart to address the situation.
Despite rising tensions, the government called for calm among Nigerians, noting recent protests at the South African High Commission in Abuja and urging citizens not to take the law into their own hands.
Responding, Machele assured that Nigeria’s concerns would be conveyed to Pretoria, maintaining that the protests were not endorsed by the South African government and reaffirming commitment to peaceful bilateral relations.
