The Federal Government has warned that it may adopt tougher measures against South Africa if attacks on Nigerians living in the country continue.
In a statement issued on Sunday through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria strongly condemned the killing of two citizens, Emeka Charles Iroegbu and Musa Yunana Joe (Big Joe), describing the incidents as part of a troubling pattern of violence targeting Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa.
Iroegbu was reportedly tortured to death by officers of the Tshwane Metro Police in Sunnyside, Pretoria, on June 28, while Joe was allegedly shot dead by unidentified gunmen outside his shop in Witbank, Mpumalanga, on the same day.
The Federal Government urged South African authorities to carry out immediate, transparent, and thorough investigations into both killings, insisting that those responsible must be identified and prosecuted without delay.
Nigeria also warned that continued attacks against its citizens could force it to explore additional diplomatic measures if what it described as “intolerant and apartheid-style behaviour” toward foreigners is not addressed.
The government noted that some of the officers allegedly involved in Iroegbu’s death were also accused of killing another Nigerian, Nnaemeka Mathew Andrew Ekpenyong, in April 2026. According to the ministry, no arrests have been made despite the identities of the officers being known to South African police.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the recurring attacks come amid growing xenophobic tensions in South Africa and expressed concern over attempts to portray Nigerians as criminals.
It also criticised remarks reportedly made by a South African government spokesperson suggesting Nigerians leaving the country due to xenophobic protests should reveal the locations of illegal drugs. Nigeria described the comments as inflammatory, unprofessional, and capable of encouraging hostility against its citizens.
While extending condolences to the families of the victims, the Federal Government pledged to continue engaging South African authorities until justice is served.
Nigerians residing in South Africa were advised to remain calm, obey the law, stay alert, avoid violence-prone areas, and relocate to safer locations where necessary. The government also urged them not to engage in retaliatory actions, stressing its commitment to resolving the situation through dialogue and diplomacy.
The ministry further disclosed that evacuation arrangements for registered Nigerians who wish to return home remain ongoing.
The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg and the Nigerian Union South Africa also condemned the killings, calling for swift investigations and justice for the victims. The union urged members of the Nigerian community to remain vigilant, exercise caution in their daily activities, and promptly report suspicious incidents to law enforcement authorities.