NIGERIA CONDEMNS DEATHS OF THREE NATIONALS IN S’AFRICA

The Federal Government has condemned the deaths of three Nigerian nationals in separate incidents in South Africa and called for thorough, transparent and expeditious investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incidents.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the deaths occurred between September 18 and 21, 2026. The victims were identified as Kenechukwu Christopher Igwemmadu, Olaniyi Olaleye Olatunde and Christian Hillary Nnaemeka.

According to the ministry, Igwemmadu died in Bloemfontein on September 18 after allegedly jumping from a building while trying to escape police harassment and brutality. Olatunde was reportedly killed at a nightclub in Pretoria on September 20, while Nnaemeka died following an incident involving South African politician and investigative content creator Xolani Khumalo and members of his team in Primrose on September 21.

The Nigerian government expressed concern about the safety of its citizens and other foreign nationals in South Africa, particularly amid recurring concerns over xenophobia and Afrophobia. It also raised concerns about allegations of excessive or unlawful conduct by law enforcement personnel.

The Federal Government urged the relevant South African authorities to investigate the deaths and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought to justice in accordance with South African law. It said constructive dialogue remains Nigeria’s preferred approach to addressing bilateral concerns.

The government also said it was considering further appropriate measures to secure the cooperation of South African authorities in protecting the rights and safety of Nigerian nationals.

Meanwhile, Nigerians living in South Africa were advised to remain calm, vigilant, law-abiding and security-conscious. The government encouraged them to maintain contact with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate-General in Johannesburg for consular assistance when necessary.