The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned the killing of two Nigerian citizens in South Africa, warning that it may take stronger diplomatic measures if attacks against Nigerians continue. Abuja also called on South African authorities to ensure justice for the victims and address the growing wave of anti-foreigner violence.
The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to South Africa following the latest killings of two Nigerian nationals, describing the incidents as deeply disturbing and demanding urgent action from the South African authorities.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the repeated attacks on Nigerians have heightened concerns over xenophobia and the safety of Nigerian citizens living in the country.
According to the Ministry, one of the victims, Emeka Charles Iroegbu, was allegedly killed by officers of the Tshwane Metro Police in Pretoria after what Nigeria described as “gruesome interrogation techniques.”
The government also identified another victim, Musa Yunana Joe, popularly known as “Big Joe,” who was reportedly shot dead outside his business premises in Mpumalanga.
The Ministry expressed concern over what it described as a recurring pattern of violence against Nigerians and alleged that the repeated incidents raise serious questions about the conduct of some security personnel and the protection afforded to foreign nationals in South Africa.
In a statement signed by the Ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Nigeria urged the South African government to carry out thorough investigations, prosecute those responsible and ensure justice for the victims.
The Ministry also criticised anti-immigrant groups accused of promoting xenophobic campaigns and warned against the continued profiling of law-abiding Nigerians as criminals.
The latest killings come amid renewed tensions over anti-foreigner protests in parts of South Africa, which have prompted several African countries to begin voluntary evacuation programmes for their citizens.
The Federal Government warned that if the attacks continue, “all options remain on the table,” signalling that Nigeria could consider stronger diplomatic measures.
It stressed that allegations of criminal conduct against any individual should be handled through due process rather than mob violence or extrajudicial actions and called on South African authorities to guarantee the safety of Nigerians residing in the country.
The latest diplomatic warning underscores growing concern over the safety of Nigerians in South Africa as anti-immigrant tensions persist. Nigerian authorities say they will continue engaging Pretoria while monitoring developments closely, insisting that those responsible for the recent killings must be identified and brought to justice.