FG spits fire over killing of Nigerians in South Africa, demands justice
Federal Government Condemns Killings of Nigerians in South Africa
The Federal Government of Nigeria has condemned the recent killings of two Nigerian nationals in South Africa and is calling for immediate investigations and accountability for those responsible.
In a statement released on Sunday, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, described the incidents as deeply troubling. One of the victims, Emeka Charles Iroegbu, was reportedly killed by officers of the Tshwane Metro Police during an alleged interrogation in Sunnyside, Pretoria, on June 28, 2026. The ministry characterized the methods used in the interrogation as brutal.
Furthermore, the statement claims that the same officers were linked to the extrajudicial killing of another Nigerian, Nnaemeka Mathew Andrew Ekpenyong, on April 20, 2026. According to the ministry, no arrests have been made in either case, despite the officers’ identities being known to the South African Police Service.
Another victim, Musa Yunana Joe, known as Big Joe, was killed in front of his shop in Witbank, Mpumalanga, on June 28, 2026, by assailants who have not yet been identified. These incidents occur amid a climate of heightened violence against foreigners in South Africa, raising concerns about the safety of Nigerian nationals.
The Nigerian government emphasized the need for urgent action to address these killings and other unresolved cases involving Nigerians in South Africa. The statement also condemned remarks made by South African officials suggesting that Nigerians leaving the country due to xenophobic violence should reveal locations of illegal drugs, describing these comments as inflammatory and unacceptable.
The Nigerian government urges South African authorities to protect the lives and properties of foreigners, including Nigerian nationals, and to ensure justice for victims. It reassured families of the deceased that it would continue to advocate for their rights and safety.
Nigerian citizens residing in South Africa are advised to remain vigilant and avoid areas prone to violence as diplomatic efforts to address the situation are ongoing. The Nigerian government reiterated its commitment to dialogue and cooperation in resolving the complex issues surrounding the treatment of its citizens abroad.