Nigerian community reports 105 deaths in South Africa in 7 years

The Nigerian community in South Africa has reported that at least 105 Nigerians have lost their lives in the country over the past seven years, due to ongoing xenophobic attacks against migrants.

The data was released in a joint statement by Smart nwobi AND Frank Onyekweluleader of Nigerian Union of South Africa (NUSA) AND Nigerian Citizens Association of South Africa (NICASA)respectively.

The statement rejected the claims of South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC)which attributed a report to Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO)suggesting that migrant killings were not occurring.

According to community records, this includes violent incidents mob attacks, vigilante actions, shootings, illegal use of force and alleged extrajudicial killings. The statement outlined victims by year:

• 2019: 12 Nigerians killed during xenophobic riots a Johannesburgwith businesses, vehicles and shops destroyed.
• 2022: Over 17 deaths due to violent attacks, including alleged brutality by security personnel.
• 2023: More than 40 Nigerians have reportedly died due to mob violence, police misconduct and unresolved violent incidents.
• 2024: 8 deaths recorded in various violent circumstances.
• 2025: 8 Nigerians killed in shootings, clashes or while in police custody.
• 2026 (January-May): Over 20 victims due to criminal attacks, security encounters and suspected extrajudicial actions.

The community has expressed concern about the lack of criminal prosecutions, accountability and transparency in many of these cases, noting that the absence of justice has increased fear and mistrust among migrants.

Despite the grim statistics, the statement recognizes that South Africa remains a constitutional democracywith many citizens supporting peaceful coexistence and rejecting xenophobia.

The Nigerian community called on the South African authorities to do so protect all residents regardless of nationalityconduct thorough and impartial investigations in violent incidents and implement stronger measures against xenophobic attacks, mob justice and illegal acts by security personnel.

Community leaders also highlighted the importance of public education, social integration and dialogue combat stereotypes and promote mutual respect between South Africans and foreign nationals.

“No society can thrive where fear and lawless violence are normalized. Everyone deserves protection under the law, and Nigerians remain committed to lawful conduct and constructive engagement with the South African authorities,” the statement concludes.