The Federal Government has expressed concern over ongoing protests in parts of South Africa calling for foreigners, particularly black nationals, to leave the country, describing the incidents as disturbing.
This was disclosed during a press briefing by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affair, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa,
following a meeting between the Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, and the Acting High Commissioner of South Africa to Nigeria, Lesoli Machele, in Abuja on Monday.
The Ministry stated that Nigeria’s diplomatic missions in South Africa, including the High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate in Johannesburg, are closely monitoring developments.
The government also confirmed the reported deaths of two Nigerian nationals, Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew Ekpeyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro, allegedly following injuries sustained while in the custody of South African security agencies.
According to the Ministry, Ekpeyong died on April 21, 2026, while in the custody of the Tshwane Metro Police Department, after reportedly sustaining injuries linked to personnel of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). A search of his residence reportedly found no incriminating evidence.
Similarly, Amaramiro was said to have died on April 25, 2026, at Livingstone Hospital in the Eastern Cape, following an alleged assault by SANDF personnel
The Nigerian government described the circumstances surrounding both deaths as troubling and called for thorough, impartial investigations
It urged South African authorities to share preliminary findings promptly and provide regular updates.
Nigeria also requested full cooperation in releasing autopsy reports, post-mortem documentation, and other relevant case files, while seeking access to legal processes for the families of the deceased.
During the meeting, Nigeria condemned violence against its citizens and raised concerns over reported threats against foreign nationals, including those linked to groups such as Operation Dudula and others allegedly led by Jacinta Zuma.
The Ministry emphasised the need for proactive measures by the South African government to prevent incitement, intimidation, and violence, while ensuring accountability for any wrongdoing by security personnel.
Nigeria further called on South Africa to guarantee the safety of Nigerians residing lawfully in the country, stressing the importance of due process, non-profiling, and adherence to professional standards during arrests and detention.
The government welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on an Early Warning Mechanism between both countries and urged its swift implementation to facilitate rapid information-sharing and de-escalation of emerging threats
On domestic reactions, the Ministry acknowledged a recent protest by a small group of Nigerians at the South African High Commission in Abuja but appealed for calm, warning against any unlawful actions.
It added that the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, had also engaged her South African counterpart via telephone to strengthen diplomatic ties and address ongoing concerns.
The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the protection and security of all diplomatic missions and personnel within its territory, in line with international obligations.
In her response, the Acting High Commissioner assured that Nigeria’s concerns would be conveyed to Pretoria, noting that the protests are not supported by the South African government and that efforts are underway to maintain peaceful relations between both countries