The Federal Government has condemned the deaths of three Nigerian nationals in separate incidents in South Africa and called for thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding the cases.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, that the incidents occurred between September 18 and 21, 2026.
The deceased were identified as Kenechukwu Christopher Igwemmadu, Olaniyi Olaleye Olatunde and Christian Hillary Nnaemeka.
According to the ministry, Igwemmadu died on September 18 after he allegedly jumped from a building while trying to escape police harassment and brutality at Kenlin Court on Douglas Street in the Central Business District of Bloemfontein.
Olatunde was reportedly killed by an unidentified South African at Spanata Bar and Grills Night Club in Mamelodi East, Pretoria, on September 20.
Nnaemeka, the ministry said, died on September 21 following an incident involving South African politician and investigative content creator, Xolani Khumalo, and members of his team in Primrose, Ekurhuleni.
The Federal Government expressed concern over the incidents, particularly amid continuing reports of xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks against Nigerians and other Africans in some parts of South Africa.
It also raised concerns about the safety of foreign nationals and allegations of excessive or unlawful conduct by law enforcement officers.
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The government called on relevant South African authorities to immediately conduct transparent and expeditious investigations and ensure that anyone found responsible is prosecuted in accordance with South African law.
It said Nigeria would continue to pursue constructive dialogue with South Africa while considering further appropriate measures to secure cooperation from the South African authorities.
The Federal Government also urged Nigerians living in South Africa to remain calm, vigilant and security-conscious.
It advised them to maintain contact with the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate General in Johannesburg whenever consular assistance is required.
The government expressed condolences to the families, friends and wider Nigerian community over the deaths.
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