No Nigerian Killed in South Africa protests, two deaths unrelated to unrest – FG
Federal Government Reports No Nigerian Casualties in South Africa Protests
The Federal Government of Nigeria announced that no Nigerian citizens were killed and no Nigerian-owned properties were damaged during recent anti-foreigner protests in South Africa. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu provided this information in a report shared on her social media account on Sunday.
The protests took place from April 27 to April 29, 2026, in various cities, including Pretoria and Johannesburg. According to Odumegwu-Ojukwu, South African authorities characterized the demonstrations as mainly peaceful, although tear gas was deployed by police in certain areas.
However, the minister confirmed that two Nigerians lost their lives in separate incidents not directly connected to the protests. One individual died following an encounter with soldiers, while another was found deceased after an alleged confrontation with metro police. Both deaths are being treated as serious matters, with Nigeria’s authorities pursuing justice through its High Commission in South Africa.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also indicated that further protests are anticipated between May 4 and 8, 2026, prompting Nigeria to summon South Africa’s High Commissioner and intensify diplomatic discussions. As of now, approximately 130 Nigerians have registered for voluntary evacuation back to Nigeria.
