The Federal Government has strongly condemned the killing of two Nigerian nationals in South Africa, demanding an immediate investigation and the prosecution of those responsible.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government identified the victims as Mr. Emeka Charles Iroegbu, who was allegedly killed by officers of the Tshwane Metro Police in Pretoria on June 28, and Mr. Musa Yunana Joe, popularly known as “Big Joe,” who was shot dead in front of his shop in Witbank on the same day.
The ministry also recalled the alleged extra-judicial killing of another Nigerian, Mr. Nnaemeka Mathew Andrew Ekpenyong, on April 20, 2026, accusing the same police officers of involvement in the incident.
The Federal Government expressed deep concern over what it described as the persistent targeting of Nigerians in South Africa, warning against attempts to portray law-abiding and hardworking Nigerians as criminals.
The latest killings come amid heightened tensions over ongoing anti-immigration protests in parts of South Africa, where some groups have staged demonstrations demanding stricter immigration enforcement and the removal of undocumented foreign nationals.
The protests have reignited concerns over xenophobic violence, with migrant communities, including Nigerians, expressing fears for their safety.
Nigeria also condemned rising xenophobic attacks and inflammatory public comments by some South African officials, describing such remarks as hate speech capable of inciting violence against foreign nationals.
The government further warned that leaders of groups such as March on March and Operation Dudula, accused of promoting hostility and violence against fellow Africans, could face regional and international criminal liability for incitement.
While calling on South African authorities to thoroughly investigate the latest killings and other unresolved cases involving Nigerian citizens, the Federal Government insisted that all perpetrators must be brought to justice.
It warned that Nigeria would consider all available diplomatic options should attacks on its citizens continue.
The Ministry also disclosed that the evacuation of registered Nigerians willing to return home from South Africa is ongoing, assuring affected citizens that the government remains committed to protecting their lives and welfare.
