By Stephen Simon
The Federal Government has strongly condemned the killing of two Nigerian nationals in South Africa amid renewed anti-migrant tensions, calling on the South African authorities to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice and that the lives and property of Nigerians living in the country are adequately protected.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs identified the victims as Emeka Charles Iroegbu, who allegedly died following an encounter with officers of the Tshwane Metro Police in Pretoria, and Musa Yunana Joe, popularly known as “Big Joe,” who was reportedly shot dead by unidentified assailants in Witbank, Mpumalanga. The government said both incidents occurred on June 28 amid rising hostility towards foreign nationals in South Africa.
In a statement issued by the Ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the government described the killings as disturbing and warned against the growing trend of targeting foreigners, particularly Nigerians, through acts of violence and unlawful profiling. The ministry stressed that allegations against any individual should be addressed through lawful judicial processes rather than mob action or extrajudicial measures.
The Federal Government expressed sympathy with the families of the deceased and said it would continue to engage the South African government through diplomatic channels until justice is served. It also urged Nigerians residing in South Africa to remain calm, be security conscious and avoid areas where anti-migrant demonstrations or violent protests are taking place.
The latest incidents come against the backdrop of renewed anti-immigrant protests in parts of South Africa, where demonstrators have blamed undocumented migrants for unemployment, crime and pressure on public services. Although the South African government has condemned vigilante actions and called for the rule of law, recent demonstrations have heightened fears among migrant communities, prompting thousands to seek repatriation or relocate to safer areas.
While South African authorities have said investigations are underway, including an independent probe into the death linked to police officers, Pretoria has asked Nigeria to provide any available evidence to assist ongoing inquiries. The differing accounts have added a diplomatic dimension to the matter as both countries seek to address the incident through official channels.
Nigeria reaffirmed that South African citizens and businesses continue to operate freely and safely in Nigeria and urged Pretoria to reciprocate by guaranteeing the safety of all foreign nationals within its borders. The government warned that it would continue to monitor developments closely while pursuing diplomatic engagement to prevent a recurrence of attacks on Nigerians and other African migrants.
