By: Ndudirim Sylvia Iloka
The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed deep concern over rising tensions in South Africa following reports of violent protests targeting foreign nationals and the deaths of two Nigerians allegedly in the custody of security agencies.
Speaking during a high-level diplomatic meeting in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, met with South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lesoli Machele, to address the escalating situation.
The Nigerian government described recent protest footage from parts of South Africa as “disturbing,” particularly given the longstanding diplomatic ties between both nations. Authorities confirmed that Nigeria’s diplomatic missions in Pretoria and Johannesburg are actively monitoring developments.
Central to the discussions were the deaths of two Nigerian nationals; Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew Ekpeyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro, both of whom reportedly died after sustaining injuries while in the custody of South African security personnel in April 2026.
According to officials, Ekpeyong died on April 21 while in custody of the Tshwane Metro Police Department, with reports suggesting prior injuries linked to members of the South African National Defence Force. A subsequent search of his residence reportedly found no incriminating evidence.
Similarly, Amaramiro died on April 25 at Livingstone Hospital in the Eastern Cape, following what authorities described as an alleged assault involving military personnel.
The Nigerian government condemned the incidents, calling for thorough, transparent, and impartial investigations, alongside the immediate sharing of findings with Nigerian authorities. Officials also demanded access to autopsy reports and legal processes for the victims’ families, stressing the need for accountability where misconduct is proven.
Beyond the deaths, Nigeria raised alarm over growing threats against foreign nationals, including Nigerians, reportedly linked to activist groups such as Operation Dudula. The government urged South African authorities to take proactive steps to curb incitement, intimidation, and violence.
While acknowledging recent statements by South African leaders condemning extrajudicial actions and attacks on foreigners, Nigeria emphasized that such commitments must translate into concrete action on the ground.
In a diplomatic push to prevent further escalation, Nigeria welcomed a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding on an Early Warning Mechanism (MOU), designed to improve communication and rapid response to emerging threats against its citizens abroad.
At home, the government also addressed rising public anger, noting a recent protest by a small group of Nigerians at the South African High Commission in Abuja. Officials called for calm and urged citizens not to resort to self-help or unlawful actions, assuring that diplomatic channels remain active. As at this morning, about 130 Nigerians in South Africa have registered to return to Nigeria and it’s been followed with due process by the federal government.
Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has also engaged her South African counterpart directly, reinforcing efforts to maintain bilateral relations and ensure the safety of Nigerians.
Responding to Nigeria’s concerns, Acting High Commissioner Lesoli Machele reiterated that the South African government does not support the ongoing protests and pledged to relay Nigeria’s position to authorities in Pretoria.
Despite mounting tensions, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peaceful relations, with Nigeria assuring continued protection of diplomatic missions within its borders.
As investigations unfold, the Nigerian government insists that justice, accountability, and the safety of its citizens abroad remain non-negotiable.(News Count)
