Two Nigerians have been killed in a fresh xenophobic violence in South Africa, thus causing further fear and panic within the diaspora community.
The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg, Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, announced this giving the names of the victims as Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, adding that they were killed in separate incidents linked to rising anti-foreigner tensions.
The development has sparked diplomatic engagement by the Federal Government as Nigerians living in South Africa demanded protection from the home government of Nigeria.
Okey-Uche on Monday said Emmanuel died from injuries inflicted on him by operatives of the South African National Defence Force on April 20.
The Consul-General said Andrew was arrested on April 19 in the Booysens area of Pretoria after an alleged altercation with members of the Tshwane Metro Police, and his remains was later found at the Pretoria Central Mortuary.
She said said both cases involving security operatives have left the victims’ families, the Nigerian community, and diplomatic missions in shock.
According to her, the FG has opened a case with the South African Police Service, calling Independent Police Investigative Directorate to ensure a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation.
She said “no matter the allegations, there are lawful processes. Everyone should be presumed innocent and granted a fair hearing in a court of law. No one should take the law into their hands.”
The Consul General revealed that the consulate was engaging relevant authorities and would provide necessary support to the families of the deceased, while warning against the growing trend of profiling Nigerians as criminals.
She appealed to Nigerians in South Africa to remain calm and law-abiding as investigations continue.
