TD Three Nigerian nationals were killed in separate incidents across South Africa between September 18 and September 21, 2026, according to an official press statement issued by the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg and shared by former Nigerian Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode (FFK).
The Consulate condemned the deaths, describing them as deeply troubling.
It raised concerns over what it called an apparent pattern of attacks targeting Nigerians living in South Africa.
Victims Killed in Separate Incidents
According to the statement, the first victim, Kenechukwu Christopher Igwemmadu, died on September 18 in Bloemfontein.
The Consulate said he allegedly jumped to his death while attempting to escape what it described as police harassment and brutality near the city’s central business district.
The second victim, Olaniyi Olayeye Olatunde, was shot during an incident at Spanata Bar and Grills Night Club in Mamelodi East, Pretoria, on September 20.
The Consulate stated that Olatunde, who worked as a security guard at the club, became involved in an altercation after attempting to stop a customer from leaving with a club-owned cup.
The suspect allegedly drew a firearm and shot him, causing severe injuries. Olatunde later died in hospital on September 21.
The third victim, Christian Hillary Nnaemeka, died on September 21 following an encounter in Primrose, Ekurhuleni.
According to the Consulate, members of a team led by South African politician and investigative content creator Xolani Khumalo allegedly assaulted, tortured, and detained Nnaemeka during an operation.
The statement claims Nnaemeka later attempted to escape, suffered injuries and exhaustion, and was pronounced dead after being taken to hospital.
Concerns Over Recurring Incidents
The Consulate noted that another Nigerian, Emeka Clement Uzor, was allegedly shot dead by the same content-creation team in February 2026.
It expressed concern that no arrests had been made in connection with that case.
The Consulate described the latest deaths as part of a troubling trend.
It said the incidents continue to raise serious questions about the safety of Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa.
Call for Investigation and Prosecution
The Nigerian mission urged South African authorities to carry out thorough investigations and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The Consulate emphasized that all allegations should be addressed through lawful judicial processes.
It stated that no individual should take the law into their own hands and that every person is entitled to a fair hearing before a court of law.
It also appealed to Nigerians residing in South Africa to remain calm, law-abiding, vigilant and security-conscious.
It described the developments as ongoing xenophobic and Afrophobic threats, attacks and ill-treatment directed at vulnerable African migrants, particularly Nigerians.
FFK: Death Toll Rises to 12 in 2026
Reacting to the development, Fani-Kayode said the three latest deaths bring the number of Nigerians killed in South Africa in 2026 to 12.
He further claimed that 112 Nigerians have been killed since 2022, including 32 allegedly killed by members of South African security forces.
The former minister alleged that no convictions have been secured in relation to the killings.
He renewed calls on South African authorities to protect Nigerian citizens and ensure accountability.
He also extended condolences to the families of the deceased, praying for the peaceful repose of their souls and comfort for their loved ones.
