Fresh xenophobic violence in South Africa has claimed the lives of two Nigerians, heightening tensions within the diaspora community and prompting urgent diplomatic engagement between both countries.
The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg confirmed that Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew were killed in separate incidents linked to rising anti-foreigner sentiment.
Consul-General Ninikanwa Okey-Uche said Emmanuel died after allegedly being assaulted by members of the South African National Defence Force on April 20, while Andrew was arrested on April 19 in Pretoria’s Booysens area following an altercation with municipal police and later found dead at a morgue in Pretoria.
The consulate said both cases, which involve security personnel, have caused shock among Nigerian nationals and diplomatic officials. Formal complaints have been lodged with the South African Police Service and the Independent Police Investigative Directorate, with calls for transparent investigations.
The Nigerian mission condemned the attacks and urged authorities to ensure justice, while advising citizens to remain calm and law-abiding as investigations continue.
The killings come amid broader reports of xenophobic hostility, including viral videos showing intimidation of foreign nationals and demands for them to leave certain communities.
In one widely circulated incident, a Nigerian trader was told to leave South Africa despite explaining his long-term residence and livelihood. In another case, an Ethiopian national was shot dead in Johannesburg, further raising concerns about safety for foreigners.
The South African Police Service condemned the attacks, describing them as contrary to the country’s democratic values and human rights principles, and confirmed that investigations are ongoing.
Nigerian community leaders in South Africa, under the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA), described the situation as alarming, citing increasing hostility, harassment, and alleged discriminatory practices by some officials.
NICASA urged both Nigerian and South African authorities to take urgent diplomatic and security steps, while calling for accountability and better protection for foreign nationals.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission also issued safety advisories, urging citizens to remain vigilant, avoid conflict zones, and, where necessary, temporarily close businesses in affected areas.
Nigeria’s acting ambassador to South Africa, Alexander Ajayi, said the situation was under control and described the incidents as isolated, while stressing ongoing cooperation between both governments.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, speaking on Freedom Day, urged foreign nationals to respect local laws and traditions, while reaffirming his government’s commitment to human rights and the rule of law.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian government has formally demanded stronger protection for its citizens, calling for accountability and renewed efforts to prevent further violence against foreigners.
