The Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg has confirmed the deaths of two Nigerian nationals, Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, in separate incidents in South Africa, amid growing concerns over xenophobic tensions.
In a statement released on Monday, the Consul-General, Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, said Emmanuel died from injuries allegedly sustained after being assaulted by personnel of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) on April 20.
She also disclosed that Andrew was arrested on April 19 in the Booysens area of Pretoria following an alleged confrontation with officers of the Tshwane Metro Police. His body was later discovered at the Pretoria Central Mortuary.
According to the consul-general, the incidents, both involving security operatives, have sent shockwaves through the victims’ families, the Nigerian community, and diplomatic circles.
Okey-Uche said a formal complaint has been lodged with the South African Police Service, while the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has been urged to carry out a thorough and unbiased probe into the cases.
“We call on South African authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter and bring the perpetrators to justice,” she said.
“No matter the allegations, there are lawful processes. Everyone should be presumed innocent and granted fair hearing in a court of law. No one should take the law into their hands.”
She added that the consulate is actively engaging relevant authorities and will continue to support the families of the deceased during the process.
The consul-general also expressed concern over increasing cases of profiling Nigerians as criminals, warning that such generalisations are harmful and dangerous.
She further appealed to Nigerians residing in South Africa to remain calm, law-abiding, and cooperative with authorities as investigations continue.
