Two Nigerians, Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpeyong Andrew, have been killed in South Africa.
According to Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, the victims were allegedly killed by personnel of the South African National Defence Force in Port Elizabeth.
Okey-Uche said the incidents have intensified concerns about the safety of Nigerians and other foreign nationals in the country, noting that the deaths have left the victims’ families, the Nigerian community, and diplomatic missions in shock.
She also warned against the growing tendency to stereotype Nigerians as criminals, stressing the dangers of such generalisations.
“We urge South African authorities to thoroughly investigate these incidents and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice,” she said. “Regardless of the allegations, due process must be followed. Everyone deserves fair treatment and a hearing in a court of law. No one should take the law into their own hands.”
She called on Nigerians living in South Africa to remain calm, law-abiding, and focused on their daily activities.
Providing details, the Consul-General said preliminary findings indicate that Emmanuel died from injuries allegedly sustained after being assaulted by military personnel on April 20, 2026.
Andrew, on the other hand, was reportedly involved in an altercation with members of the Tshwane Metro Police. He was arrested on April 19 in the Booysens area, and his body was later discovered at the Pretoria Central Mortuary under unclear circumstances.
“A formal case has been opened with the South African Police Service, and investigations are ongoing,” she added, welcoming the development while stressing the need for a transparent and impartial probe.
She further called on the Independent Police Investigative Directorate to expedite its inquiry and establish the full facts surrounding the incidents.
The Consulate-General, she said, is engaging with relevant South African authorities, closely monitoring developments, and is ready to provide necessary consular support to the families of the deceased.
She extended condolences to the bereaved families and reaffirmed the Consulate’s commitment to protecting the welfare and rights of Nigerians abroad, urging the Nigerian community to remain peaceful and allow authorities to complete their investigations.
