The Nigerian Government has condemned the killing of two Nigerian citizens in South Africa amid escalating anti-foreigner protests, warning that it may adopt stronger measures if attacks targeting Nigerians continue.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the government described the incidents as deeply troubling and urged South African authorities to ensure justice for the victims while guaranteeing the safety of Nigerians legally residing in the country.
According to the ministry, the victims, Emeka Charles Iroegbu and Musa Yunana Joe, were both killed on June 28 under separate circumstances.
The government alleged that Iroegbu died after being subjected to what it described as “gruesome interrogation techniques” by officers of the Tshwane Metro Police in Sunnyside, Pretoria, while Yunana Joe, popularly known as Big Joe, was shot dead outside his shop in Witbank, Mpumalanga.
Abuja also expressed concern that the officers allegedly involved in Iroegbu’s death had previously been linked to the killing of another Nigerian, Nnaemeka Mathew Andrew Ekpenyong, in April, noting that no arrests have been made despite the identities of the officers being known to the South African Police Service.
The Federal Government said the latest killings came against the backdrop of increasing hostility towards foreign nationals in South Africa, warning that law-abiding Nigerians were being unfairly stereotyped as criminals.
It argued that the recurring attacks and alleged involvement of security personnel raised serious concerns over possible state responsibility under international law.
The ministry also criticised recent remarks by a South African government spokesperson who reportedly suggested that Nigerians leaving the country because of xenophobic protests should disclose where they concealed illegal drugs.
It described the comments as inflammatory, unprofessional and capable of inciting hatred and violence against Nigerians living in South Africa.
The government further condemned the activities of groups such as March on March and Operation Dudula, accusing them of promoting violence and hatred against fellow Africans.
Calling for urgent action, Nigeria urged South African authorities to thoroughly investigate the recent killings and other unresolved cases involving Nigerians, prosecute those responsible and uphold the rule of law.
It stressed that every suspect deserves a fair hearing in court rather than being subjected to extrajudicial actions.
While expressing sympathy to the bereaved families, the Federal Government assured that it would continue engaging the South African government through diplomatic channels until justice is served.
Nigerians residing in South Africa were advised to remain calm, law-abiding and vigilant, avoid areas prone to violence and relocate to safer neighbourhoods where necessary as diplomatic efforts continue.
The government also reminded South Africa that its citizens and businesses operate freely in Nigeria without harassment, insisting that Pretoria has a corresponding obligation to protect the lives and property of all foreigners within its territory.
It warned that should the attacks persist, “all options remain on the table,” while appealing to Nigerians at home not to engage in retaliatory actions against South African interests.
The ministry added that the ongoing evacuation of registered Nigerians wishing to leave South Africa would continue as part of measures to safeguard affected citizens.
