Two Nigerian nationals, Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, have reportedly been killed in separate incidents linked to security personnel in South Africa, raising fresh concerns over the safety of foreigners amid rising tensions.
The deaths were confirmed by Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, who serves as Nigeria’s Consul-General in Johannesburg.
According to her, Emmanuel was allegedly beaten by operatives of the South African National Defence Force in Port Elizabeth on April 20, 2026, leading to fatal injuries.
In a separate case, Andrew was reportedly apprehended on April 19 in the Booysens area of Pretoria following an altercation with officers of the Tshwane Metro Police. His body was later discovered at a mortuary under unclear circumstances.
The Nigerian mission disclosed that a formal investigation has been initiated by the South African Police Service, with involvement expected from the Independent Police Investigative Directorate to ensure accountability.
Okey-Uche condemned the incidents and warned against the growing trend of profiling Nigerians as criminals, stressing that such generalisations pose serious risks to innocent citizens.
She called on South African authorities to carry out a transparent and impartial investigation, insisting that due process must be followed in all cases.
“No one should take the law into their own hands,” she said, urging that all suspects be presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The envoy also appealed to Nigerians living in South Africa to remain calm and law-abiding while authorities conclude their investigations. She assured that the Consulate remains actively engaged with local agencies and is prepared to provide necessary support to the families of the deceased.
The incidents have sparked renewed anxiety within the Nigerian community, with diplomatic efforts ongoing to ensure justice and improved protection for foreign nationals in the country.
