The federal government has requested immediate accountability from South Africa following the murders of two Nigerians and a wave of anti-foreigner riots, saying that the occurrences endanger diplomatic relations and the safety of its citizens.
The government released the forceful statement after inviting South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lesoli Machele, to meet with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb Dunoma Ahmed, on Monday in Abuja.
According to a statement made by the ministry’s spokeswoman, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the deaths of Nnaemeka Matthew Ekpeyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro, both of whom were reportedly assaulted by South African security officials, are at the heart of the dispute.
On 21 April 2026, the Tshwane Metro Police Department reported the death of Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew Ekpeyong while in their custody.
“Before his death, he reportedly sustained injuries attributed to personnel of the South African National Defence Force,” the ministry stated.
The government added 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.”
Speaking on the second case, it stated, “On 25 April 2026, Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro died at Livingstone Hospital in the Eastern Cape following an alleged assault by SANDF personnel.”
Speaking beyond the deaths, Nigeria condemned what it described as escalating hostility toward foreigners.
“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.”
Officials issued a warning that threats linked to groups such as Operation Dudula and figures including Jacinta Zuma point to a broader pattern of incitement.
“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 emphasized the need for proactive measures to prevent incitement, intimidation, or violence,” the statement read.
The federal government demanded that the deaths be investigated promptly and openly.
“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 emphasizes the need for accountability where wrongdoing is established, including appropriate disciplinary and prosecutorial action against implicated personnel.”
The government also pressed South African authorities to guarantee the safety of Nigerians living in the country, calling for “clear directives against profiling, adherence to due process during arrests and detention, and strict enforcement of professional conduct standards by relevant agencies.”
It acknowledged remarks made by South African authorities denouncing violence but cautioned that words must “translate into consistent action.”
In the meantime, diplomatic efforts have stepped up, with Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, meeting with her South African counterpart to discuss the situation.
Despite growing rage, the ministry called for moderation.
“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, Machele insisted that the South African government did not endorse the protests and stated Pretoria would be informed of Nigeria’s stance.
The ambassador continued, “We will take steps to ensure continuous peaceful relations between both countries.”
