Three more Nigerians have died in separate incidents in South Africa amid growing concerns over attacks and violence involving foreign nationals.
The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg disclosed the deaths, saying the incidents occurred between September 18 and 21 in different parts of the country.
According to Consul-General Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, Kenechukwu Christopher Igwemadu allegedly died on September 18 after jumping from a building while trying to escape alleged police harassment and brutality at Kenlin Court on Douglas Street in Bloemfontein.
Another Nigerian, Olaniyi Olaleye Olatunde, was reportedly shot at Spanata Bar and Grills Night Club in Mamelodi East, Pretoria, on September 20.
Olatunde, who worked as a security guard at the facility, was said to have confronted a South African customer who allegedly attempted to leave the club with a cup belonging to the establishment.
Related News:
34-Year-Old Nigerian Dies After Alleged Attack In South Africa
105 Nigerians Killed in South Africa Since 2019 — Community Leaders Raise Alarm
Ime Okon Explains Why He Chose South Africa Over Nigeria for World Cup 2026
The confrontation reportedly escalated before the customer allegedly brought out a firearm and shot Olatunde in the lower part of his body. The suspect reportedly fled after the incident and allegedly threatened witnesses who could identify him.
Olatunde was taken to a hospital but died the following morning from his injuries.
The third victim, Christian Hillary Nnaemeka, reportedly died on September 21 following an alleged encounter with South African politician and investigative content creator Xolani Khumalo and members of his Sizok’thola team in Primrose, Ekurhuleni.
Nnaemeka was reportedly arrested and allegedly assaulted by members of the team before attempting to escape by jumping over a fence.
The Nigerian reportedly collapsed from exhaustion and injuries and was pronounced dead after being taken to a hospital.
Khumalo, who is contesting for mayor of Ekurhuleni, had previously faced allegations linked to the death of another Nigerian, Emeza Uzor, whose death was reported in February.
The Nigerian consulate described the latest deaths as deeply troubling and called for investigations by South African authorities.
Okey-Uche also expressed concern over what she described as questions surrounding the safety of Nigerians and other foreigners in South Africa, particularly following the deaths of three Nigerians within a short period.
The latest incidents follow reports of other Nigerians being killed amid renewed anti-migrant tensions and xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
The consulate urged South African authorities to investigate the cases while advising Nigerians in the country to avoid violence and remain security-conscious.
About the Author
