Omanghana
Nigeria has strongly condemned the killing of two of its citizens in South Africa, warning that all diplomatic options remain under consideration if what it described as growing anti-foreigner violence is not urgently addressed.
The latest deaths, reported on June 28, 2026, occurred amid heightened tensions surrounding an unofficial end-of-month deadline declared by anti-migrant groups calling for foreign nationals to leave South Africa. The incidents have increased the reported number of Nigerians killed during the recent wave of xenophobic unrest to four.
Two Nigerians Killed in Separate Incidents
According to statements issued by Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg, the victims died in separate incidents under different circumstances.
One of the victims, Emeka Charles Iroegbu, allegedly died after being subjected to torture while in the custody of officers from the Tshwane Metro Police in the Sunnyside area of Pretoria. Nigerian officials claimed he was subjected to what they described as “gruesome interrogation techniques” before his death.
The second victim, Musa Yunana Joe, widely known as “Big Joe,” was reportedly shot and killed by unidentified gunmen outside his business premises in Witbank, Mpumalanga Province.
Nigerian authorities have called for thorough investigations into both incidents and urged South African authorities to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
Diplomatic Tensions Escalate
The killings have intensified diplomatic tensions between Africa’s two largest economies.
Nigeria has formally urged the South African government to conduct transparent investigations, hold perpetrators accountable, and provide appropriate support for affected victims and families. Abuja has also indicated that further diplomatic measures could be considered if attacks targeting foreign nationals continue.
The diplomatic dispute deepened after South African Cabinet Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni rejected discussions about compensation for affected foreign nationals. During a media briefing, she also made remarks concerning alleged criminal activities involving some foreign nationals, comments that drew sharp criticism from Nigerian officials.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the remarks as “unacceptable” and “derogatory,” arguing that broad generalizations about an entire national community risk fueling xenophobia and discrimination.
Rising Anti-Migrant Sentiment
The latest incidents come against the backdrop of increasing anti-immigrant protests in several parts of South Africa, where some groups have accused foreign nationals of contributing to unemployment, crime, and pressure on public services.
The growing tensions have prompted several African governments, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Malawi, to organize the voluntary evacuation of citizens wishing to return home.
Thousands of foreign nationals have reportedly left South Africa in recent weeks, with more than 700 Nigerians among those repatriated to Lagos following reports of attacks, looting, and growing insecurity in affected communities.
Calls for Justice
Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to protecting its citizens abroad and has urged South African authorities to ensure the safety of all foreign nationals living in the country.
As of the latest reports, South African authorities had not publicly responded to the specific allegations concerning the reported death of Emeka Charles Iroegbu while in the custody of Tshwane Metro Police. Investigations into both incidents are expected to continue as diplomatic engagement between the two countries intensifies.
Source: Omanghana
