Three Nigerians Killed In South Africa Within Four Days — Consulate

The Nigerian Consulate-General in Johannesburg has condemned the deaths of three Nigerians in separate incidents across South Africa between September 18 and 21, 2026.

The Consul-General, Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, disclosed this in a statement, expressing concern over the safety of Nigerians and other foreign nationals in the country.

The victims were identified as Kenechukwu Christopher Igwemmadú, Olaniyi Olaleye Olatunde and Christian Hillary Nnaemeka.

According to the Consulate, Igwemmadú died on September 18 after allegedly jumping to his death while attempting to escape what was described as police harassment and brutality at Kenlin Court in Bloemfontein.

Two days later, Olatunde, who worked as a security guard at a nightclub in Mamelodi East, Pretoria, was allegedly shot during an altercation with a South African customer.

The Consulate said Olatunde was rushed to hospital but later died from his injuries on September 21.

The third victim, Nnaemeka, allegedly died following an encounter with South African politician and investigative content creator Xolani Khumalo and members of his content creation team in Primrose, Ekurhuleni.

The Consulate alleged that Nnaemeka was assaulted and tortured during the encounter before collapsing from injuries and exhaustion while attempting to escape. He was taken to hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

The Nigerian mission called on South African authorities to thoroughly investigate the three deaths and prosecute anyone found responsible.

It also stressed that allegations of criminal activity should not justify extrajudicial actions, saying suspects should be presumed innocent and given a fair hearing in court.

The Consulate appealed to Nigerians in South Africa to remain calm, law-abiding and security-conscious amid concerns over attacks, threats and ill-treatment of foreign nationals.

Nigeria’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Femi Fani-Kayode, also condemned the deaths, saying the latest incidents had brought the number of Nigerians killed in South Africa in 2026 to 12.

He called on South African authorities to protect Nigerians and ensure that those responsible for the killings face justice.

The Consulate extended condolences to the families of the deceased and reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and fair treatment of Nigerians living in South Africa.