The Nigerian consulate in Johannesburg has strongly condemned the alleged killing of Nigerian national Emeka Charles Iroegbu by Tshwane metro police officers in South Africa, calling for a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident. Mr Iroegbu, 50, was reportedly murdered on June 28, 2026, in Sunnyside, Pretoria, within the Gauteng province. The consulate expressed deep shock and pain over the incident, particularly citing the use of brutal interrogation methods that allegedly led to his death. Consul General Ninikanwa Okey-Uche issued a formal statement condemning the act in the strongest possible terms.
The statement confirmed that Mr Iroegbu, born on March 1, 1976, was killed under circumstances that raise serious concerns about the conduct of South African law enforcement. The consulate highlighted that this incident follows another troubling case involving the extrajudicial killing of Nigerian national Andrew Ekpenyong on April 20, 2026, also allegedly at the hands of Tshwane metro police. Despite evidence pointing to four suspected officers in the Ekpenyong case, no arrests have been made, and the investigation remains unresolved. This pattern has intensified concerns among Nigerians in South Africa and diplomatic missions about the safety and treatment of Nigerian nationals.
Consul General Okey-Uche emphasized that Mr Iroegbu’s death occurs during a period when foreigners, especially Africans, are being unfairly targeted in South Africa. She warned that such incidents contribute to a dangerous narrative that wrongly labels hardworking and law-abiding Nigerians as criminals. The consulate stressed that justice must be pursued through legal channels and that no one should be subjected to violence or unlawful detention, regardless of suspicion. “All must be presumed innocent and granted a fair hearing in a court of law,” she stated firmly.
The Nigerian mission called on the South African government to act swiftly and ensure accountability for those responsible. It also urged Nigerian citizens in the country to remain calm, follow the law, and stay vigilant amid ongoing xenophobic and afrophobic demonstrations. The consulate reiterated its commitment to protecting the welfare and rights of all Nigerians abroad. As the investigation unfolds, the consulate remains focused on ensuring justice for Mr Iroegbu and preventing future tragedies. This case underscores the urgent need for stronger protections for Nigerian nationals living and working in South Africa.
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