Two Nigerians, Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, have lost their lives in fresh violence in South Africa, a development that has stirred worry among Nigerians living there.
Nigeria’s Consul-General in Johannesburg, Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, confirmed that the two men were killed in separate incidents linked to personnel of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) in Port Elizabeth. She said the incidents have raised fresh fears about the safety of Nigerians and other foreigners in the country.
According to her, the deaths have left the families of the victims, members of the Nigerian community and diplomatic missions deeply shocked. She also warned against the growing habit of branding innocent Nigerians as criminals.
Okey-Uche said, “On this, we are calling on South African authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter and bring the perpetrators of the gruesome act to justice.
“Our position is that no matter what the allegations may be, there are lawful processes and steps to justice. All should be presumed innocent and granted fair treatment and hearing in a court of law.
“No one should take laws into their own hands under any circumstances. We hope to achieve the ultimate prosecution of the perpetrators,” she said.
She urged Nigerians in South Africa to remain calm, obey the law and continue their daily activities peacefully.
Details from the Consulate showed that Emmanuel reportedly died from injuries he suffered during severe beatings by military personnel on April 20, 2026. Andrew, on the other hand, was arrested on April 19 in the Booysens area of Pretoria after an alleged altercation with members of the Tshwane Metro Police. His body was later found at the Pretoria Central Mortuary under unclear circumstances.
“A formal case has been opened with the South African Police Service and the matter is being investigated.
“We welcome this development and underscore the importance of ensuring the investigation is conducted in a thorough, transparent, and impartial manner.
“In this regard, the Consulate-General respectfully calls on the relevant South African authorities, including the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), to expedite inquiries and establish the facts surrounding this incident,” she said.
The envoy added that the Consulate is working closely with South African authorities and will support the families of the victims. She also offered condolences to the grieving families and assured Nigerians that their welfare and fair treatment remain a top concern.
