Abuja, May 4, 2026 —
The Federal Government has condemned reported threats and attacks against Nigerians and other foreign nationals residing in South Africa, calling for urgent action to safeguard lives and restore confidence.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement issued on Monday by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the threats—allegedly driven by groups urging foreigners, particularly black migrants, to leave the country—have heightened fears within affected communities.
The condemnation followed a high-level meeting in Abuja between the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Ambassador Dunoma Ahmed, and South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lesoli Machele. Discussions focused on recent incidents involving Nigerians and broader concerns affecting bilateral relations.
Ebienfa disclosed that Nigeria strongly denounced all forms of violence against its citizens, citing recent cases, including the deaths of Matthew Ekpenyong and Kelvin Amaramiro, reportedly linked to assaults involving security personnel.
“These incidents, alongside other reported cases, have heightened anxiety within the Nigerian community and require urgent, credible and transparent remedial action,” he said.
The government has demanded a thorough and impartial investigation into the deaths, urging South African authorities to promptly share preliminary findings and provide regular updates. It also requested access to autopsy reports and relevant case documents, as well as support for affected families seeking legal redress.
Ahmed, according to the statement, acknowledged public condemnations of extrajudicial killings by South African leaders and their rejection of attacks and looting targeting foreign nationals. However, he stressed that such commitments must translate into concrete actions.
He called for accountability where misconduct by security personnel is established, insisting that disciplinary and prosecutorial measures must follow confirmed violations.
The permanent secretary further urged South Africa to ensure the protection of Nigerians residing lawfully within its borders, including safeguards against profiling, harassment and unlawful detention.
Ahmed also raised concerns over the activities of groups such as Jacinta Zuma and Operation Dudula, which have been linked to anti-foreigner sentiments and violence. He called for proactive measures to curb incitement, intimidation and attacks.
While welcoming the bilateral early warning mechanism agreement between both countries, Ahmed urged its immediate activation in response to emerging threats.
“The ministry calls on South Africa to prevent further violence and restore confidence. Nigerians in South Africa must be allowed to live safely, lawfully and with dignity,” he added.
