The Federal Government has condemned the deaths of three Nigerian nationals in separate incidents in South Africa between September 18 and 21, 2026, calling for thorough, transparent and expeditious investigations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, on Wednesday, said the government received the reports with “grave concern” and demanded that anyone found culpable be brought to justice in accordance with South African law.
According to the ministry, Kenechukwu Christopher Igwemmadu died on September 18 after allegedly jumping from a building while trying to escape police harassment and brutality at Kenlin Court on Douglas Street, Central Business District, Bloemfontein.
It said Olaniyi Olaleye Olatunde was reportedly killed by an unidentified South African at Spanata Bar and Grills Night Club in Mamelodi East, Pretoria, on September 20.
The third victim, Christian Hillary Nnaemeka, reportedly died on September 21 following an incident involving South African politician and investigative content creator, Xolani Khumalo, and members of his team in Primrose, Ekurhuleni.
The Federal Government expressed concern that the incidents occurred amid continuing challenges linked to xenophobia and Afrophobia in parts of South Africa.
It also raised concerns over the safety and protection of foreign nationals and allegations of excessive or unlawful conduct by law enforcement personnel.
“Any use of interrogation or enforcement methods that contravene established legal and human rights standards is unacceptable and must be thoroughly investigated,” the ministry said.
Nigeria said it had consistently engaged the South African government over recurring xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks and had previously raised the concerns with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU).
The government added that it was considering further appropriate measures to secure the cooperation of South African authorities in addressing the concerns and protecting Nigerian nationals.
Meanwhile, Nigerians living in South Africa were urged to remain calm, vigilant, law-abiding and security-conscious, while maintaining regular contact with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate General in Johannesburg for consular assistance.
The Federal Government expressed condolences to the families, friends and the wider Nigerian community in South Africa, while praying for the peaceful repose of the three deceased Nigerians.
