ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Federal Government has engaged South African authorities over the killing of two Nigerians in separate incidents involving security operatives, demanding a thorough investigation and justice for the victims.
Nigeria’s Acting Ambassador to South Africa, Temitope Ajayi, disclosed in an interview that the Nigerian mission had submitted a diplomatic note to the highest levels of the South African Government over the incidents, insisting on accountability.
Ajayi explained that the two Nigerians were killed outside the recent demonstrations linked to xenophobic tensions, stressing that the incidents were not connected to the protests.
He said the first incident occurred on April 24 in Pretoria, where a Nigerian reportedly had an encounter with officials of the South African Police Service.
According to him, the operatives first searched the victim’s residence and later his shop but found nothing incriminating.
“We don’t know what happened next, but the next thing we heard was that he was shot in the mouth,” Ajayi said.
The envoy further disclosed that the second incident happened on April 26 in Port Elizabeth, where another Nigerian allegedly died following an encounter with members of the South African military.
He said the operatives reportedly visited the victim’s residence around midnight over allegations of drug-related activities.
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“In the process, they tortured him and the neighbour cried out when it was becoming too much. He was rescued and taken to the hospital but died a few days later from injuries sustained,” Ajayi stated.
He emphasised that the two incidents were unrelated to the demonstrations that have raised concerns among Nigerians.
Ajayi said the Nigerian mission was pressing for decisive action from South African authorities.
“We have called for a thorough investigation. We have raised a diplomatic note to the highest level of the South African Government over these two cases, and we want to see justice done,” he said.
He added that the incidents had been referred to the relevant bureau responsible for investigating cases involving the police and military.
Xenophobic attacks in South Africa have continued to generate diplomatic concerns across the continent, especially with Nigeria.
Major outbreaks in 2008, 2015 and 2019 saw foreign nationals, including Nigerians, targeted in widespread attacks on homes, shops and businesses.
The violence has frequently been linked to economic hardship, rising unemployment and perceptions among some South Africans that foreigners are competing for limited jobs and opportunities.
Narratives around criminality have also contributed to the stigmatisation of migrants, further escalating hostility.
Nigeria has historically responded strongly to such incidents.
The issue remains sensitive due to Nigeria’s support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle, including financial and diplomatic assistance to liberation movements.