The Federal Government has expressed concern over the deaths of three Nigerians in separate incidents in South Africa, urging authorities in the country to carry out thorough and transparent investigations into the circumstances surrounding the cases.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs made this known in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, on Wednesday.
The ministry said the incidents occurred between September 18 and 21, 2026, and identified the deceased as Kenechukwu Christopher Igwemmadu, Olaniyi Olaleye Olatunde and Christian Hillary Nnaemeka.
According to the statement, Igwemmadu died on September 18 after he allegedly jumped from a building while attempting to escape what was described as police harassment and brutality at Kenlin Court on Douglas Street, Central Business District, Bloemfontein.
Olatunde reportedly died on September 20 after an unidentified South African allegedly attacked him at Spanata Bar and Grills Night Club in Mamelodi East, Pretoria.
Nnaemeka, according to the ministry, died the following day after an incident involving South African politician and investigative content creator, Xolani Khumalo, and members of his team in Primrose, Ekurhuleni.
The Federal Government said the incidents were particularly troubling given continuing reports of xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks involving Nigerians and other African nationals in some parts of South Africa.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria condemns these incidents and is deeply concerned by their occurrence at a time when Nigerians and other Africans continue to face challenges associated with Xenophobia and Afrophobia in parts of South Africa,” the statement said.
It also questioned the level of protection available to foreign nationals and the measures being implemented by South African authorities to prevent targeted attacks and ensure accountability when violations occur.
The government separately expressed concern over allegations of excessive or unlawful actions by law enforcement officers.
“The Federal Government is equally concerned by allegations of excessive or unlawful conduct by law enforcement personnel entrusted with the protection of lives and property. Any use of interrogation or enforcement methods that contravene established legal and human rights standard is unacceptable and must be thoroughly investigated,” it said.
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Nigeria consequently called on the relevant South African authorities to investigate the three cases without delay and ensure that anyone found responsible faces the law.
“In this regard, the Federal Government of Nigeria calls on the relevant South African authorities to immediately undertake thorough, transparent and expeditious investigations into the circumstances surrounding these deaths, and ensure that any persons found culpable are brought to justice in accordance with South African law,” the statement said.
The ministry said Nigeria remained committed to resolving bilateral concerns with South Africa through constructive dialogue.
It noted that the Nigerian government had repeatedly raised concerns about xenophobia and Afrophobia with South African authorities, as well as at the Economic Community of West African States and African Union levels.
The government said the latest incidents had prompted it to consider additional steps to obtain the cooperation of South African authorities in addressing the concerns and safeguarding Nigerians living in the country.
“In light of these latest developments, the Federal Government of Nigeria is actively considering further appropriate measures to secure the cooperation of the South African authorities in addressing these concerns and protecting the rights and safety of Nigerian nationals,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, the government appealed to Nigerians resident in South Africa to remain calm and vigilant while observing the law and taking necessary security precautions.
It also advised Nigerians to stay in regular contact with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate General in Johannesburg for assistance when required.
The Federal Government extended its condolences to the families, friends and wider Nigerian community in South Africa over the deaths of Igwemmadu, Olatunde and Nnaemeka.