The Federal Government has called for a thorough and impartial investigation into the deaths of two Nigerians in South Africa, as it intensifies diplomatic efforts to address growing xenophobic tensions in the country.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, disclosed this in Abuja following a closed-door meeting between Nigerian and South African diplomatic officials.
The meeting involved the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, and the Acting South African High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lesoli Machele, among other diplomats, under the directive of Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu.
Nigeria expressed concern over ongoing protests in parts of South Africa where groups have reportedly called for foreigners, particularly black Africans, to leave the country. Authorities said the situation has heightened anxiety among Nigerians living there.
The government also confirmed the deaths of two Nigerian citizens, Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew Ekpeyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro, who reportedly died after sustaining injuries while in the custody of South African security personnel.
According to the ministry, Ekpeyong died on April 21, 2026, while in custody of the Tshwane Metro Police Department, while Amaramiro died on April 25, 2026, at Livingstone Hospital in the Eastern Cape following an alleged assault.
Nigeria described the circumstances surrounding the deaths as troubling and called for full disclosure of investigation findings, including autopsy reports and case files. It also demanded accountability and appropriate disciplinary or legal action where wrongdoing is established.
The Federal Government further expressed concern over threats against foreign nationals in South Africa and urged authorities to take proactive measures to prevent violence and incitement.
As part of diplomatic efforts, Nigeria said it is accelerating the implementation of a bilateral Early Warning Mechanism recently agreed with South Africa to improve rapid response to emerging crises and protect citizens.
Officials confirmed that Nigeria had received South Africa’s signed copy of the agreement and urged swift activation of the mechanism.
The government also called for stronger protection of Nigerians living legally in South Africa and emphasized the need for them to live safely and with dignity.
Meanwhile, officials noted that Nigeria may consider further diplomatic steps depending on how the situation evolves, stressing that it expects concrete action rather than statements from South African authorities.
