TD The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg has called for justice following the deaths of three Nigerian nationals in separate incidents across South Africa between September 18 and 21, 2026.
The incidents have renewed concerns about the safety and security of Nigerians and other African nationals living in South Africa.
In a statement, Nigeria’s Consul-General, Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, called on South African authorities to intervene.
Okey-Uche requested them to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought to justice.
Three Deaths Reported Within 4 Days in South Africa
According to the Consulate in South Africa, Kenechukwu Christopher Igwemmadu died on September 18.
He allegedly jumped from a building while attempting to escape alleged police harassment and brutality at Kenlin Court on Douglas Street, Bloemfontein.
Two days later, Olaniyi Olaleye Olatunde, a Nigerian security guard, was allegedly shot by an unidentified South African at Spanata Bar and Grills Night Club in Mamelodi East, Pretoria.
The Consulate said the incident followed an argument over a cup belonging to the club.
Olatunde reportedly sustained a gunshot wound and was taken to Mamelodi Hospital, where he died on September 21.
The Consulate further alleged that the suspected shooter later returned to the club, threatened witnesses and subsequently left the scene.
Third Nigerian Dies Following Alleged Encounter
The third case involved Christian Hillary Nnaemeka, who the Consulate said died on September 21.
It was followed by an alleged encounter with South Africa politician and investigative content creator Xolani Khumalo and members of his Sizok’thola team in Primrose, Ekurhuleni.
The Consulate alleged that Nnaemeka was assaulted and tortured during the encounter before attempting to escape.
According to the statement, Nnaemeka subsequently collapsed from injuries and exhaustion and was taken to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The allegations have not been established by a court.
Investigations by the relevant South African authorities will be necessary to determine the circumstances and responsibility in the case.
Concerns Over Safety of Nigerians in South Africa
Ambassador Okey-Uche also recalled the February 9 death of another Nigerian, Emeka Clement Uzor.
According to the Consulate, Uzor was shot during an encounter with Khumalo’s reality television crew in Windsor East, Randburg.
The Consulate said no arrests had been made in connection with Uzor’s death.
The Nigerian Consulate said the recent deaths have heightened concerns over the treatment and security of Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.
It expressed concern over what it described as incidents involving xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks, threats and other forms of alleged ill-treatment.
“Nigerian and all lives matter,” Okey-Uche said, stressing that allegations must be handled through due process.
He also emphasised that suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty and must be given the opportunity to defend themselves before a court of law.
Consulate Urges Nigerians to Remain Calm
The Consulate urged Nigerians in South Africa to remain calm, law-abiding and security-conscious while it continues to pursue their welfare and fair treatment.
It said it would continue to engage relevant authorities over cases involving Nigerian nationals.
It also seeks appropriate action where their rights and safety are alleged to have been compromised.
The circumstances surrounding the three deaths remain subject to investigation.
The allegations contained in the Consulate’s statement should not be treated as established facts until independently verified or determined through due process.
