THE Federal Government has stated that no Nigerian was killed and no Nigerian-owned property was destroyed during the recent anti-foreigner protests recorded in parts of South Africa.
News Point Nigeria reports that the clarification was made by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, in a situation report titled “South Africa Protests: Situation Report,” which she published on her X handle on Sunday.
According to the minister, the Federal Government is closely monitoring the growing tensions associated with anti-foreigner demonstrations in selected South African cities.
She disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had expressed concern over the situation and directed intensified diplomatic engagement with South African authorities.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu explained that although several viral images and videos circulating on social media appeared to suggest violent xenophobic attacks, official reports from South African authorities indicated that the protests held in Pretoria and Johannesburg between April 27 and 29, 2026, were largely peaceful.
She noted, however, that security operatives occasionally deployed tear gas to disperse gatherings during the demonstrations.
The minister further disclosed that two Nigerians reportedly died in separate incidents that were not directly connected to the protests but allegedly involved encounters with security personnel.
She identified one of the deceased as Amamiro Chidiebere Emmanuel, who allegedly died from injuries sustained during an encounter with military personnel of the South African National Defence Force.
Another Nigerian, Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew, was reportedly found dead following an alleged encounter with metro police officers.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu described both incidents as “condemnable and unacceptable,” adding that the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa was already following up on investigations to ensure justice is served.
The minister also revealed that another round of demonstrations is expected to take place between May 4 and 8, 2026, prompting the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic engagement with South African authorities.
According to her, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already summoned South Africa’s High Commissioner to Nigeria over the situation.
She added that Nigerian diplomatic missions in South Africa remain in constant communication with host authorities to monitor developments and protect Nigerian citizens.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu further disclosed that arrangements were ongoing for the voluntary repatriation of Nigerians willing to return home from South Africa.
She said approximately 130 Nigerians had already registered for evacuation.
The minister stressed that Nigeria remains committed to protecting its citizens abroad and maintaining diplomatic cooperation with South Africa in order to prevent further xenophobic tensions.
She also recalled Nigeria’s historic role and support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid liberation struggle.
According to her, both countries had previously signed a memorandum of understanding on early warning mechanisms aimed at preventing and managing crises affecting citizens of Nigeria and South Africa.