FG condemns killing of three Nigerians in South Africa

The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned the recent deaths of three Nigerian nationals in South Africa, urging for prompt and thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding their deaths. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement identifying the victims as Kenechukwu Igwemmadu, Olaniyi Olatunde, and Christian Nnaemeka, whose deaths occurred between September 18 and 21, 2026.

Igwemmadu died after allegedly jumping from a building to escape police harassment in Bloemfontein, Olatunde was killed in Pretoria, and Nnaemeka died in Ekurhuleni following an incident involving South African politician and content creator, Xolani Khumalo. The government expressed deep concern over these incidents, particularly in the context of xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks against Nigerians and other Africans in South Africa.

They emphasized the need for accountability and highlighted their commitment to ensuring the safety and protection of foreign nationals, as well as addressing any allegations of excessive or unlawful conduct by law enforcement personnel. Nigeria called for immediate and transparent investigations into the deaths, urging South African authorities to bring any culpable individuals to justice.