THE Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg has strongly condemned the killing of two Nigerian nationals in South Africa, demanding a full and transparent investigation into the incidents, as well as the prosecution of those found responsible.
In a statement sent to News Point Nigeria on Monday, the Consul-General, Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, identified the victims as Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, both of whom died in separate but troubling encounters involving South African security personnel within a short span of time.
She said the deaths have sent shockwaves through the families of the victims, the Nigerian community, and diplomatic circles across South Africa, while also reigniting deep concerns over the safety and protection of Nigerian nationals residing in the country.
According to the Consulate, Emmanuel died after sustaining injuries from a beating allegedly carried out by personnel of the South African National Defence Force in Port Elizabeth on April 20.
Andrew, described as a motor mechanic and father of five, was reportedly arrested on April 19 in the Booysens area of Pretoria while returning home from work. His body was discovered the following day at the Pretoria Central Mortuary under circumstances that strongly suggest foul play.
Following the incident, a murder case was opened at Hercules SAPS, Pretoria Police Station, with case number CAS 224/04/2026, and an investigating officer has since been assigned to handle the matter.
Reacting to the development, Okey-Uche called on South African authorities to ensure that no effort is spared in uncovering the truth behind the deaths. She urged the Independent Police Investigative Directorate to fast-track its inquiries and establish the full facts surrounding both incidents.
The Consul-General stressed that irrespective of any allegations that may exist against the deceased, due process must be strictly observed.
“No one should take laws into their own hands under any circumstances,” she said, adding that every individual is entitled to the presumption of innocence and a fair hearing before a competent court of law.
She also condemned what she described as a dangerous and recurring trend of profiling Nigerians in South Africa, warning against the blanket labelling of Nigerian nationals as criminals.
According to her, such generalisations not only misrepresent the community but also expose innocent Nigerians to heightened risks and unwarranted hostility.
The development comes amid heightened tension, as intelligence reports cited by the Nigerian Consulate indicate that fresh anti-foreigner protests are expected in Gauteng Province between April 27 and April 29.
The protests, according to the reports, are aimed at pressuring the South African government over the continued presence of foreign nationals in the country.
Earlier demonstrations in cities including East London, Cape Town, Durban, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal had already escalated into violence, leading to looting, destruction of property, and injuries to foreign nationals, including Nigerians.
The Consulate disclosed that it is actively engaging with South African authorities while closely monitoring the evolving situation. It also confirmed that consular support is being provided to the families of the deceased.
Nigerians living in South Africa were, however, advised to remain calm, prioritise their safety, and allow relevant authorities to carry out their investigations.