The Federal Government has demanded urgent accountability from the South Africa following the deaths of two Nigerians and rising anti-foreigner protests, warning that the situation could strain diplomatic relations.
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, Ambassador Dunoma Ahmed.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the cases involve the deaths of Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew Ekpeyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro, both reportedly linked to alleged assaults by South African security personnel.
The ministry said Ekpeyong died while in custody of the Tshwane Metro Police Department after reportedly sustaining injuries linked to members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). It also noted that a search of his residence found no incriminating evidence.
In a second case, Amaramiro reportedly died at Livingstone Hospital in Eastern Cape following an alleged assault involving SANDF personnel.
Beyond the deaths, Nigeria also raised concern over increasing anti-foreigner protests in parts of South Africa, including calls for foreigners—particularly Black migrants—to leave the country. Groups such as Operation Dudula were referenced in reports of rising tensions.
The Nigerian government called for immediate, transparent investigations into both deaths, including access to autopsy reports and case files, and insisted on accountability where wrongdoing is established.
It also urged South African authorities to ensure the safety of Nigerians living in the country, prevent profiling, and enforce professional conduct among security agencies.
While acknowledging South African officials’ statements condemning violence, Nigeria stressed that such assurances must be backed by concrete action.
Diplomatic engagement between both countries is ongoing, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizing restraint and urging Nigerians not to take the law into their own hands.
South Africa’s representative assured that the concerns would be relayed to Pretoria and reiterated commitment to maintaining peaceful relations between both countries.
