South African Security Forces Kill Two Nigerians
The Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg has condemned the killing of two Nigerian nationals by South African security forces, with Consul-General Ninikanwa Okey-Uche demanding a thorough investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
In a statement issued on Monday, Okey-Uche identified the victims as Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, who died in separate incidents involving security personnel within days of each other.
She said the deaths had shocked their families, the Nigerian community and diplomatic missions across South Africa, while also raising fresh concerns about the safety of Nigerians in the country.
Emmanuel reportedly died from injuries sustained during a beating by personnel of the South African National Defence Force in Port Elizabeth on April 20.
Andrew, a motor mechanic and father of five, was arrested on April 19 in the Booysens area of Pretoria while returning from work.
His body was discovered the next day at the Pretoria Central Mortuary under circumstances suggesting foul play.
A murder case has been opened at Hercules Police Station in Pretoria, with an investigating officer assigned.
Okey-Uche urged South African authorities to carry out a transparent investigation and called on the Independent Police Investigative Directorate to fast-track its probe into the incidents.
She stressed that regardless of any allegations, due process must be followed, noting that no individual has the right to take the law into their own hands.
The Consul-General also criticised the growing trend of stereotyping Nigerians in South Africa as criminals, warning that such generalisations endanger innocent lives.
She said intelligence reports indicate that fresh anti-foreigner protests are expected in Gauteng Province between April 27 and April 29, with demonstrators planning to pressure the government over the presence of foreign nationals.
According to the Consulate, previous protests across East London, Cape Town, Durban and KwaZulu-Natal had turned violent, leading to looting, destruction of property and injuries to foreign nationals, including Nigerians.
The mission said it is engaging with South African authorities, monitoring developments and providing support to the families of the deceased.
It also urged Nigerians living in South Africa to remain calm, prioritise their safety and allow authorities to handle the situation.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
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