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 developments could strain diplomatic relations and endanger Nigerian nationals living in the country.
The position was made known after South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lesoli Machele, was summoned to a meeting in Abuja on Monday with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Ahmed.
In a statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the government outlined concerns over the deaths of Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew Ekpeyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro, both allegedly involving South African security operatives.
“It was reported that on 21 April 2026, Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew Ekpeyong died while in the custody of the Tshwane Metro Police Department.
Before his death, he reportedly sustained injuries attributed to personnel of the South African National Defence Force,” the ministry stated.
It further noted that “Reports further indicate that a search of his residence yielded no incriminating evidence.
The circumstances of his detention and death have raised concerns regarding the conduct of the security personnel involved.”
On the second case, the ministry said, “On 25 April 2026, Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro died at Livingstone Hospital in the Eastern Cape following an alleged assault by SANDF personnel.”
Beyond the fatalities, Nigeria also raised alarm over what it described as growing hostility against foreigners in South Africa.
“The Government of Nigeria notes with concern the ongoing protests in some parts of South Africa, requesting foreigners, especially blacks, to leave the country,” the statement read, adding that “Some of the videos of the violent protests are very disturbing.”
The government expressed concern over alleged incitement linked to groups such as Operation Dudula and individuals including Jacinta Zuma, warning of a broader pattern of intimidation.
“The Government of Nigeria expressed strong concern over reported threats against foreign nationals in South Africa, including those attributed to a group reportedly led by Jacinta Zuma, and other groups such as Operation Dudula and emphasised the need for proactive measures to prevent incitement, intimidation, or violence,” the statement read.
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Nigeria insisted on swift and transparent investigations into both deaths.
“We therefore request thorough and impartial investigations into both deaths, including prompt sharing of preliminary findings and regular updates with the Government of Nigeria,” the ministry stated.
It also demanded “full cooperation in providing autopsy reports, post-mortem documentation, and relevant case files, and in facilitating access to legal processes for the families of the deceased.
As a precautionary measure, Nigeria emphasises the need for accountability where wrongdoing is established, including appropriate disciplinary and prosecutorial action against implicated personnel.”
The Federal Government further urged South African authorities to guarantee the protection of Nigerians, stressing the need for due process, non-discriminatory policing, and strict adherence to professional standards.
While acknowledging statements from South African authorities condemning violence, Nigeria insisted that such assurances must be backed by concrete action.
Diplomatic discussions have since intensified, with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, engaging her South African counterpart over the situation.
The ministry also appealed for calm following a protest by a small group of Nigerians at the South African High Commission in Abuja on Friday.
“Finally, the ministry called on the South African Government to implement decisive steps to prevent further violence against Nigerians, rebuild confidence within the Nigerian community, and ensure Nigerians can live in South Africa safely and with dignity.
On the issue of growing discontent on the part of Nigerians over the unacceptable treatment of Nigerians, the ministry is aware of the protest by a small group of Nigerians at the South African High Commission in Abuja on Friday, but calls for calm and any attempt by individuals or groups to take the law into their own hands.
Government is engaging the South African authorities at the highest level to address the concerns raised regarding the protection of Nigerians,” the statement added.
In response, Acting High Commissioner Lesoli Machele assured that Nigeria’s concerns would be conveyed to Pretoria and stated that the protests were not endorsed by the South African government, adding that steps would be taken “to ensure continuous peaceful relations between both countries.”