The Federal Government has strongly condemned the killing of two Nigerian nationals in South Africa, warning that it may take further diplomatic measures if attacks against Nigerians continue.
In separate statements issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg and the Nigerian Union South Africa, the government called for immediate, transparent and thorough investigations into the deaths of Emeka Charles Iroegbu and Musa Yunana Joe, popularly known as Big Joe.
The two Nigerians were killed on June 28, 2026. Iroegbu was allegedly tortured to death by officers of the Tshwane Metro Police in Sunnyside, Pretoria, while Joe was reportedly shot dead by unidentified gunmen outside his shop in Witbank, Mpumalanga.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the incidents as part of a disturbing pattern of violence against Nigerians in South Africa.
It warned that if the attacks persist, Nigeria could consider additional measures, stressing that “all options remain on the table” unless what it described as intolerance and apartheid-style behaviour against foreigners is addressed.
The ministry also recalled the unresolved killing of another Nigerian, Nnaemeka Mathew Andrew Ekpenyong, who allegedly died at the hands of the same Tshwane Metro Police officers on April 20, 2026. According to the government, no arrests have been made despite the officers being known to the South African Police Service.
The Federal Government expressed concern over what it described as increasing xenophobic attacks targeting foreigners, warning against attempts to stereotype Nigerians as criminals. It also criticised remarks reportedly made by a South African government spokesperson linking Nigerians to illegal drugs, describing the comments as inflammatory, unprofessional and capable of inciting violence.
Nigeria called on South African authorities to urgently investigate the latest killings and other unresolved cases involving Nigerian nationals, and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice without delay.
While sympathising with the families of the victims, the government pledged to continue engaging South African authorities through diplomatic channels until justice is served.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also advised Nigerians living in South Africa to remain calm, law-abiding and vigilant, urging them to avoid areas prone to violence and relocate to safer locations where necessary.
It further appealed against retaliatory actions, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to resolving the matter through dialogue in the spirit of African unity and cooperation.
The government added that arrangements remain in place for the voluntary evacuation of registered Nigerians who wish to return home from South Africa.
The Nigerian Union South Africa also called for a prompt, transparent and comprehensive investigation into the killings, urging South African authorities to ensure that those responsible face the full weight of the law.
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