The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has strongly condemned threats against Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa, calling for urgent action to address the growing concerns. The ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, confirmed this on Monday in Abuja, following a meeting between Permanent Secretary Dunoma Ahmed and South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner, Lesoli Machele.
Ebienfa revealed that certain groups in South Africa had allegedly urged foreigners, particularly black migrants, to leave the country. This has led to heightened anxiety within the Nigerian community, especially after the reported deaths of two Nigerians, Matthew Ekpenyong and Kelvin Amaramiro, who both allegedly died after assaults involving security personnel.
“Nigeria strongly condemns these violent actions against its citizens,” Ebienfa said, adding that the ministry called for a thorough, credible, and transparent investigation into both deaths. He further stressed the need for timely updates on the investigations and access to autopsy reports and other relevant documents. Additionally, the Nigerian government has requested support for the affected families to access legal processes.
Ebienfa noted that the meeting between the Nigerian and South African diplomats discussed ongoing attacks on Nigerians and other issues affecting bilateral relations. Permanent Secretary Ahmed acknowledged the condemnation by South African leaders of extrajudicial killings and rejected attacks on foreign nationals. However, he emphasized that such statements must be backed by concrete actions on the ground.
“Accountability is crucial, and any misconduct by security personnel must lead to disciplinary and prosecutorial actions,” Ahmed said. He urged South Africa to ensure the protection of law-abiding Nigerians in the country, particularly against profiling and unlawful detention. The Nigerian government also called for strict adherence to professional standards by South African security agencies.
Ahmed further pointed out that groups such as Jacinta Zuma and Operation Dudula have been linked to anti-foreigner activities in South Africa. He called for proactive measures to prevent incitement, intimidation, and violence against foreign nationals.
In addition, the Permanent Secretary welcomed the early warning mechanism memorandum signed by both nations, urging its immediate activation whenever threats to Nigerians arise. “We call on South Africa to prevent further violence and restore confidence,” he concluded, emphasizing that Nigerians in South Africa should be able to live safely, lawfully, and with dignity.
