South Africa Challenges Nigeria Over Alleged Killings of Nigerians Amid Diplomatic Tensions

Fresh diplomatic tension has erupted between Nigeria and South Africa after Pretoria demanded evidence to support Abuja’s claims that two Nigerian citizens were killed during recent anti-migrant violence. The development comes after Nigeria threatened possible diplomatic action if attacks on its nationals continue, reigniting concerns over xenophobic violence and the safety of African migrants in South Africa.

South Africa has asked Nigeria to provide evidence supporting claims that two Nigerian citizens were killed during recent anti-migrant violence. The request followed Nigeria’s warning that it could take diplomatic action if attacks on its nationals continue. South African authorities denied allegations of state involvement, while police said an independent investigation into one of the deaths is ongoing.
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South Africa has asked Nigeria to provide evidence supporting its allegations that two Nigerian citizens were killed during a recent wave of anti-migrant violence, following Abuja’s warning that it could take diplomatic action if attacks on its nationals persist.

The diplomatic exchange follows a statement issued by Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which condemned the deaths of two Nigerians and accused South African authorities of failing to provide adequate protection for foreign nationals living in the country.

In a statement released on Sunday, the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said Emeka Charles Iroegbu died during what Nigeria described as a “gruesome interrogation” by officers of the Tshwane Metro Police in Sunnyside, Pretoria, on June 28.

The ministry also stated that Musa Yunana Joe, popularly known as “Big Joe,” was shot dead by unidentified gunmen outside his shop in eMalahleni, formerly known as Witbank, in Mpumalanga, on the same day.

Nigeria expressed concern over what it described as a recurring pattern of attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals residing in South Africa.

“We wish to place the Government of South Africa on notice that if the situation continues to persist, all options remain on the table, some of which will be activated if the uncultured and provocative trend of intolerance and apartheid-style behaviour against foreigners is not addressed,” the ministry stated.

Furthermore, Nigeria argued that the repeated attacks raise serious questions about South Africa’s commitment to its international obligations to protect foreign nationals. It also noted that South African citizens and businesses continue to operate freely in Nigeria and urged Pretoria to guarantee similar protection for Nigerians living lawfully in South Africa.

However, despite its strong criticism, the Federal Government appealed to Nigerians to remain calm and avoid retaliatory actions against South African businesses or citizens. Instead, it said it would continue pursuing diplomatic engagement while facilitating the voluntary evacuation of Nigerians wishing to return home.

In response, South Africa rejected suggestions of state complicity and urged Nigeria to substantiate its allegations.

According to Reuters, South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) advised the Nigerian government to submit any evidence through established diplomatic channels rather than making public accusations. The department added that any credible evidence presented would be thoroughly examined by the relevant authorities.

Meanwhile, the South African Police Service disputed part of Nigeria’s account concerning the death of Iroegbu.

Police said Iroegbu collapsed while being arrested during a drug-related operation at his apartment in Pretoria, where officers allegedly recovered illegal substances. Authorities said paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene and maintained that the incident was unrelated to the recent anti-migrant protests.

The police also confirmed that the matter has been referred to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), South Africa’s police watchdog, which has launched an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Nigeria, however, insists that Iroegbu died during police interrogation and has demanded justice, transparency and accountability.

The latest diplomatic row comes amid renewed anti-migrant demonstrations across parts of South Africa. Protesters have blamed undocumented migrants for rising crime, unemployment and pressure on public services.

Although many demonstrations have remained peaceful, some have turned violent, resulting in attacks on foreign nationals and the looting of foreign-owned businesses.

Human rights organisations have repeatedly warned that migrants are being unfairly scapegoated for South Africa’s long-standing socio-economic challenges.

Consequently, several African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana and Malawi, have intensified efforts to assist citizens seeking to return home. Earlier this year, Nigeria launched a voluntary evacuation programme after many Nigerians requested repatriation over growing security concerns.

Relations between Nigeria and South Africa have experienced periodic strain due to recurring outbreaks of xenophobic violence. Previous attacks on foreign nationals have triggered diplomatic protests and renewed calls for stronger protection of African migrants living in South Africa.

Investigations into the two deaths remain ongoing as both governments continue diplomatic engagements through official channels.