In a statement released on Sunday, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, described the incidents as deeply troubling and raised concerns over what the government said was a growing trend of violence targeting Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa.
According to the ministry, one of the victims, Emeka Charles Iroegbu, was allegedly killed by officers of the Tshwane Metro Police during an interrogation in Sunnyside, Pretoria, on June 28, 2026.
The ministry further alleged that the same officers were linked to the death of another Nigerian, Nnaemeka Mathew Andrew Ekpenyong, on April 20, 2026. It claimed that despite the identities of the four officers allegedly involved being known to the South African Police Service, no arrests have been made.
The second victim, Musa Yunana Joe, widely known as Big Joe, was reportedly shot dead outside his shop in Witbank, Mpumalanga, on June 28 by unidentified gunmen.
The Federal Government said the killings come amid recurring xenophobic attacks against foreigners, adding that the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa remains a major concern.
Nigeria urged South African authorities to carry out thorough investigations into the latest incidents and other unresolved cases involving the deaths of Nigerian nationals, stressing that those responsible must face justice.
The government also emphasised that anyone accused of wrongdoing deserves due process, noting that allegations should be handled through the courts rather than unlawful actions.
In addition, the ministry criticised recent remarks by a South African government spokesperson who reportedly asked Nigerians leaving the country because of xenophobic protests to reveal where illegal drugs had been hidden. It described the comments as irresponsible, offensive and capable of encouraging hostility against Nigerians.
The statement further condemned groups accused of promoting anti-foreigner violence, including March on March and Operation Dudula, warning that individuals who incite hatred and attacks against fellow Africans could face regional and international legal consequences.
The Federal Government advised Nigerians living in South Africa to remain peaceful, obey local laws and stay vigilant. It also encouraged them to relocate from areas considered unsafe while diplomatic efforts continue.
At the same time, Nigerians at home were urged not to engage in retaliatory actions, with the government reaffirming its commitment to resolving the situation through dialogue in line with the ideals of African unity.
The ministry disclosed that the evacuation of registered Nigerians from South Africa is ongoing.
It also reminded the South African government of its obligation under international law to protect the lives and property of all foreign nationals residing in the country.
While noting that South African citizens and businesses continue to operate freely in Nigeria, the Federal Government said Nigerians living legally in South Africa deserve equal protection and should not be subjected to targeted violence.
The statement added that if the attacks continue, Nigeria may consider further measures, insisting that persistent intolerance and discrimination against foreigners cannot be allowed to continue unchecked.
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