The Nigerian community in South Africa has reported that at least 105 Nigerians have lost their lives in the country over the past seven years, amid ongoing xenophobic attacks targeting migrants.
The figure was released in a joint statement by Smart Nwobi and Frank Onyekwelu, leaders of the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) and Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA), respectively.
The statement rejected claims by the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), which attributed a report to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), suggesting that migrant killings were not occurring.
According to community records, violent incidents have included mob attacks, vigilante actions, shootings, unlawful use of force, and alleged extra-judicial killings. The statement outlined fatalities by year:
- 2019: 12 Nigerians killed during xenophobic unrest in Johannesburg, with businesses, vehicles, and shops destroyed.
- 2022: Over 17 deaths from violent attacks, including alleged brutality by security personnel.
- 2023: More than 40 Nigerians reportedly died due to mob violence, police misconduct, and unresolved violent incidents.
- 2024: 8 deaths recorded under various violent circumstances.
- 2025: 8 Nigerians killed in shootings, confrontations, or while in police custody.
- 2026 (January–May): Over 20 fatalities from criminal attacks, security encounters, and suspected extra-judicial actions.
The community expressed concern over the lack of prosecutions, accountability, and transparency in many of these cases, noting that the absence of justice has increased fear and mistrust among migrants.
Despite the grim statistics, the statement acknowledged that South Africa remains a constitutional democracy, with many citizens supporting peaceful coexistence and rejecting xenophobia.
The Nigerian community called on South African authorities to protect all residents regardless of nationality, conduct thorough and impartial investigations into violent incidents, and implement stronger measures against xenophobic attacks, mob justice, and unlawful acts by security personnel.
Community leaders also emphasized the importance of public education, social integration, and dialogue to combat stereotypes and promote mutual respect between South Africans and foreign nationals.
“No society can thrive where fear and unlawful violence are normalized. Everyone deserves protection under the law, and Nigerians remain committed to lawful conduct and constructive engagement with South African authorities,” the statement concluded.
