Nigeria Condemns Threats Against Citizens in South Africa
- May 5
- 2 min read
The Nigerian government has strongly denounced recent threats directed at its citizens and other foreign nationals residing in South Africa, describing the situation as deeply concerning and requiring urgent attention.
This position was made known by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs following a diplomatic engagement in Abuja between Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary, Dunoma Æ Ahmed, and South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner, Lesoli Machele. The discussions focused on rising tensions affecting Nigerians and broader bilateral concerns.
According to the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, reports indicate that certain groups in South Africa have been mobilising hostility toward foreign nationals, with calls for migrants—particularly black foreigners—to leave the country. Nigeria warned that such rhetoric could escalate into violence if not addressed swiftly.
The government also referenced recent incidents involving Nigerian nationals, including the deaths of Matthew Ekpenyong and Kelvin Amaramiro, which were reportedly linked to assaults involving security operatives. Authorities noted that these developments have heightened fear within the Nigerian community.
Nigeria has formally requested that South African authorities provide transparent updates on ongoing investigations, including access to autopsy reports and other relevant documentation. It also urged that affected families be supported in seeking justice through appropriate legal channels.
While acknowledging public condemnations of violence by South African officials, Nigeria stressed that such statements must be matched with concrete actions, including accountability for any misconduct by security personnel.
The Nigerian government further called on South Africa to ensure the safety of law-abiding Nigerians, emphasizing the need to prevent profiling, unlawful detention, and other rights violations. It also urged security agencies to operate strictly within professional and legal standards.
Concerns were raised over the activities of certain groups allegedly linked to anti-foreigner sentiment, with Nigeria urging proactive measures to curb incitement, intimidation, and attacks targeting migrants.
In addition, Nigeria highlighted the importance of an existing bilateral agreement designed to detect and respond to early signs of conflict. Officials called for the immediate activation of this early warning framework to prevent further escalation.
Reaffirming its position, the government stated that Nigerians living abroad must be able to reside in safety and dignity, in line with international human rights standards.
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