FG Seeks Justice for Victims of Xenophobic Violence in South Africa

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Federal Government has demanded justice for Nigerians affected by recent xenophobic violence in South Africa, calling for swift investigations and firm action against those responsible.

This position was made known during a meeting in Abuja between the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, and South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lesoli Machele, amid rising concerns over the safety of Nigerians abroad.

The Nigerian government expressed alarm over ongoing protests in parts of South Africa targeting foreign nationals, warning that such developments could undermine longstanding diplomatic relations between both countries.

Of particular concern were the reported deaths of two Nigerians; Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew Ekpeyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro, allegedly linked to actions of South African security personnel.

Ekpeyong reportedly died on April 21 while in custody of the Tshwane Metro Police Department after sustaining injuries attributed to members of the South African National Defence Force, while Amaramiro died days later in hospital following an alleged assault.

The Ministry said the incidents have heightened anxiety within the Nigerian community and underscored the urgency of credible intervention.

“Nigeria condemns the violence against its citizens and demands thorough and impartial investigations into these incidents,” the government stated.

It further urged South African authorities to share preliminary findings and provide regular updates on the cases.

The Federal Government also called for full cooperation in making available autopsy reports, post-mortem documentation and other relevant case files, while ensuring that the families of the deceased have access to justice.

“Nigeria emphasises the need for accountability where wrongdoing is established, including appropriate disciplinary and prosecutorial action against implicated personnel,” the statement added.

Beyond the fatalities, the government raised concerns over broader threats to foreign nationals, including activities linked to groups such as Operation Dudula, urging authorities to take proactive steps to prevent further violence.

It stressed the importance of clear directives against profiling, strict adherence to due process during arrests, and enforcement of professional standards among security agencies.

The Federal Government also welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on an Early Warning Mechanism between both countries, describing it as a vital tool for timely information-sharing and crisis prevention.

Officials said activating the mechanism without delay would help detect and de-escalate emerging threats.

While acknowledging growing frustration among Nigerians, including a recent protest at the South African High Commission in Abuja, the government appealed for calm and urged citizens not to resort to self-help.

It noted that diplomatic engagement remains ongoing, with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, having held talks with her South African counterpart to address the situation.

The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to protecting diplomatic missions and personnel in line with international obligations.

In her response, Machele assured that Nigeria’s concerns would be conveyed to Pretoria, noting that the protests were not supported by the South African government.