FG Demands Probe Over Nigerians’ Deaths in South Africa
The Federal Government has called for urgent accountability from South Africa following the deaths of two Nigerians and rising anti-foreigner protests, warning that the incidents could affect diplomatic relations and the safety of its citizens.
The position was made known after Nigeria summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner, Lesoli Machele, to a meeting in Abuja with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Ahmed.
In a statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the government expressed concern over the deaths of Nnaemeka Matthew Ekpeyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro, which were allegedly linked to assaults by South African security personnel.
According to the statement, Ekpeyong died on April 21, 2026, while in the custody of the Tshwane Metro Police Department after reportedly sustaining injuries attributed to members of the South African National Defence Force.
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The government also said Amaramiro died on April 25 at a hospital in the Eastern Cape following an alleged assault by military personnel.
Beyond the deaths, Nigeria raised alarm over ongoing protests in parts of South Africa calling for foreigners to leave, describing some of the reported incidents as disturbing.
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Officials also pointed to threats linked to groups such as Operation Dudula, warning of a growing pattern of hostility towards foreign nationals.
The Federal Government called for thorough and transparent investigations into the incidents and urged South African authorities to take steps to prevent further violence.