The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has strongly condemned recent threats and violent attacks against Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa, urging immediate and transparent action from South African authorities. The condemnation follows a series of alarming incidents, including the deaths of Matthew Ekpenyong and Kelvin Amaramiro, both of whom were allegedly assaulted by security personnel. The ministry emphasized that these attacks have caused widespread anxiety among the Nigerian community in South Africa and called for urgent intervention to ensure the safety and dignity of all Nigerian citizens living lawfully in the country.
In Abuja on Monday, the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, disclosed these concerns following a high-level meeting between Permanent Secretary Dunoma Ahmed and South Africa’s acting high commissioner, Lesoli Machele. The meeting focused on escalating tensions and the safety of Nigerians in South Africa, with Nigeria demanding credible, transparent, and prompt responses from South African authorities. Ebienfa stressed that Nigeria expects the sharing of preliminary findings and regular updates on investigations into the deaths and other reported attacks.
The ministry also requested access to autopsy reports and all relevant case documents, insisting that affected families must be supported in navigating legal processes. While acknowledging statements from South African leaders condemning extrajudicial killings, Nigeria stressed that words must be backed by concrete actions. Permanent Secretary Ahmed welcomed the official rejection of violence and looting targeting foreign nationals but emphasized that such commitments must translate into tangible protection on the ground.
Ahmed called for strict accountability in cases where misconduct by security personnel is confirmed, urging disciplinary and prosecutorial action. He also demanded that South Africa guarantee the safety of Nigerians living lawfully in the country, including protection against profiling and unlawful detention. Security agencies, he added, must strictly adhere to professional standards to prevent abuse and ensure justice.
The permanent secretary specifically identified groups such as Jacinta Zuma and Operation Dudula as being linked to anti-foreigner attacks and incitement. He urged South African authorities to take proactive measures to prevent further violence, intimidation, and hate speech. He also welcomed the recently signed memorandum on an early warning mechanism between Nigeria and South Africa, calling for its immediate activation whenever threats against Nigerians arise.
Nigeria remains committed to protecting its citizens abroad, and the ministry’s actions reflect a firm stance on ensuring that Nigerians in South Africa can live safely, lawfully, and with dignity. The situation underscores the need for sustained diplomatic engagement and swift, decisive action to uphold human rights and international cooperation. Moving forward, both nations must work together to build trust and ensure the safety of all foreign nationals, especially in times of rising xenophobia.
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