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The Federal Government has stepped up diplomatic pressure on South Africa, demanding accountability for the deaths of two Nigerians and rising anti-foreigner hostility, and warning that the situation could worsen bilateral relations and endanger its citizens.
This position became known after Nigeria summoned the Acting High Commissioner of South Africa, Lesoli Machele, to meet in Abuja with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Ahmed.
In a statement issued by the ministry spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the government highlighted the deaths of two Nigerians – Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew Ekpeyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro – both allegedly linked to the actions of South African security personnel.
“It was reported that on April 21 2026, Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew Ekpeyong died while being detained at the Tshwane Metro Police.
“Prior to his death, he reportedly suffered injuries caused by South African National Defense Force personnel,” the ministry said.
The statement added that “Further reports indicate that a search of his residence did not yield any incriminating evidence.
“The circumstances of his detention and death have raised concerns regarding the behavior of the security personnel involved.”
Regarding the second incident, the government noted, “On 25 April 2026, Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro died at Livingstone Hospital in the Eastern Cape following an alleged assault by SANDF personnel.”
In addition to the heavy loss of life, Nigerians also condemned what they described as rising anti-foreigner sentiment across the South African region.
“The Nigerian government is concerned about the ongoing protests in some parts of South Africa, and is asking foreigners, especially black citizens, to leave the country,” the statement said, adding that “Some videos of violent protests are deeply disturbing.”
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Officials further raised concerns about the role of certain groups and individuals in fueling tensions.
“The Nigerian government expresses strong concern at reports of threats against foreign nationals in South Africa, including those linked to a group reportedly led by Jacinta Zuma, and other groups such as Operation Dudula and emphasizes the need for proactive action to prevent incitement, intimidation or violence,” the statement read.
Nigeria demanded full transparency in the investigation into the death and demanded cooperation from South African authorities.
“We therefore request a thorough and impartial investigation into both deaths, including the immediate submission of initial findings and regular updates to the Nigerian Government,” the ministry said.
The statement also called for “full cooperation in providing autopsy reports, post-mortem documentation, and relevant case files, and in facilitating access to legal proceedings for the families of the deceased.
“As a precautionary measure, Nigeria emphasizes the need for accountability in the event of violations, including appropriate disciplinary action and prosecution of the personnel involved.”
The Federal Government further urged South Africa to ensure the safety of Nigerians living within its borders, calling for stricter compliance with legal processes and professional conduct by security agencies.
Nigeria specifically demands “clear direction against profiling, adherence to due process during arrest and detention, and enforcement of strict standards of professional conduct by relevant agencies.”
While acknowledging public condemnation of the violence committed by South African leaders, the government emphasized that such statements must be supported by concrete actions.
Diplomatic engagement between the two countries has intensified, with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, having held discussions with her South African counterpart to resolve the situation.
Despite rising anger among Nigerians, the government called on people to exercise restraint and calm.
“Finally, the ministry calls on the South African Government to implement decisive measures to prevent further violence against Nigerians, rebuild trust within the Nigerian community, and ensure Nigerians can live in South Africa in safety and dignity.
“Regarding the growing dissatisfaction of Nigerians over the unacceptable treatment of Nigerians, the ministry is aware of the protest staged by a small group of Nigerians at the South African High Commission in Abuja on Friday, but calls for calm and all efforts by individuals or groups to take matters into their own hands.
“The government is engaging South African authorities at the highest levels to address concerns raised regarding the protection of Nigerians,” the statement added.
Responding to Nigerian concerns, Machele assured that Pretoria would be briefed accordingly, and reiterated that the protest did not reflect official government policy and that steps would be taken “to ensure continued peaceful relations between the two countries.”
