Xenophobia Row: Nigerian Community Alleges 105 Deaths In South Africa

The Nigerian community in South Africa has alleged that at least 105 Nigerians were killed over the past seven years, in a statement issued on Thursday, May 29, 2026, linking the deaths to xenophobic violence, criminal attacks, and unresolved incidents involving foreign nationals.

The claim was made by leaders of the Nigerian Union in South Africa, Smart Nwobi, and the Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa, Frank Onyekwelu.

The group rejected a South African Broadcasting Corporation report suggesting migrants were not being killed in the country, saying such claims undermine victims and weaken accountability.

It said its figures were drawn from community records, civil society inputs, media reports, and migrant documentation covering 2019 to 2026.

According to the statement, about 12 Nigerians were killed in 2019 during xenophobic unrest in Johannesburg targeting businesses and properties.

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It alleged over 17 deaths in 2022, more than 40 in 2023, about eight in 2024, another eight in 2025, and over 20 from January 2026 to date, involving mob attacks, shootings, custody deaths, vigilante violence, and alleged misconduct by security personnel.

While noting that several cases remain under investigation, the group said weak accountability and lack of transparent outcomes have deepened fear among migrants.

It stressed that its position was not intended to undermine South African institutions, describing the country as a constitutional democracy built on human rights and the rule of law.

The community urged stronger protection for all residents, transparent investigations into killings and custody deaths, and tougher action against xenophobic violence, mob justice, and unlawful conduct.

It also called for deeper community integration and public education, warning that no society can thrive where mob justice is normalized.

The group reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence and continued engagement with authorities in South Africa.