The Nigerian government has condemned the recent killing of two of its citizens in South Africa, warning that it may consider stronger measures if attacks on Nigerians continue.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, one of the victims, Emeka Charles Iroegbu, allegedly died after officers of the Tshwane Metro Police subjected him to brutal interrogation on June 28, 2026, in Sunnyside, Pretoria.
The ministry also recalled the earlier killing of another Nigerian, Nnaemeka Mathew Andrew Ekpenyong, on April 20, 2026. It alleged that the same police officers were involved in the incident, noting that no arrests have been made despite the identities of the four officers being known to the South African Police Service (SAPS).
A second victim, Musa Yunana Joe, popularly known as Big Joe, was reportedly shot dead in front of his shop on June 28 in Witbank, Mpumalanga.
The ministry said the attackers responsible for Big Joe’s death have yet to be identified, describing the development as deeply troubling.
It noted that the latest incidents come amid growing reports of foreigners being targeted in South Africa.
The statement expressed concern that some groups appear to be portraying law-abiding Nigerians as criminals, adding that the trend raises fresh questions about the safety of Nigerians and other foreign nationals living in the country.
The ministry further argued that the repeated attacks, particularly those allegedly involving members of the Tshwane Metro Police, point to a disturbing pattern that could amount to state responsibility under international law.
It said records compiled by Nigerian diplomatic missions in South Africa could support possible criminal liability.
While acknowledging South Africa’s high crime rate, the Nigerian government insisted it was unfair to blame or victimise foreigners for the country’s social and economic challenges.
It maintained that Nigerians generally respect the rule of law and should not be made scapegoats.
The Federal Government also criticised comments reportedly made by a South African government spokesperson during a televised interview, in which Nigerians leaving the country amid xenophobic protests were challenged to reveal where illegal drugs were hidden.
The ministry described the remarks as irresponsible, offensive and capable of fueling hatred against Nigerians.
It added that such public comments from senior government officials could encourage violence and discrimination against members of the Nigerian community.
The government also warned that leaders of anti-foreigner groups, including March on March and Operation Dudula, could face regional and international accountability for inciting hatred and violence against fellow Africans.
Call for justice
Nigeria urged South African authorities to immediately investigate the recent killings and other unresolved cases involving Nigerian nationals, while ensuring those responsible are prosecuted without delay.
It stressed that every suspect deserves due process and a fair hearing in court, regardless of the allegations against them.
The government also extended condolences to the families of the victims, pledging to continue engaging South African authorities until justice is achieved.
In view of the tense security situation, Nigerians living in South Africa were advised to remain calm, obey local laws and stay alert.
The ministry encouraged citizens to relocate to safer areas where necessary and avoid locations prone to violence as diplomatic efforts continue to address the growing wave of xenophobia and Afrophobia.
The Federal Government noted that many South African citizens and businesses continue to operate freely in Nigeria without harassment, stressing that South Africa has a duty to protect all foreigners within its borders.
It said the continued targeting of Nigerians legally residing in South Africa was unacceptable and called on the South African government to guarantee their safety.
The ministry warned that if the attacks persist, Nigeria could consider additional measures, stating that “all options remain on the table” unless what it described as intolerance and apartheid-style treatment of foreigners is addressed.
Despite the warning, the government urged Nigerians not to resort to reprisals, saying it remains committed to dialogue, negotiation and African solidarity as the preferred path to resolving the crisis.
It also confirmed that the evacuation of registered Nigerians from South Africa is ongoing.
