FG demands justice over death of 3 Nigerians in South Africa

The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg has called for justice over the death of three Nigerians in separate incidents i South Africa.

Their death was reported to have occured between September 18 and September 21, 2026, amid renewed concerns over the safety of Nigerians in South Africa.

Nigeria’s Consul-General in Johannesburg, Amb. Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday, September 28, calling on South African authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding their deaths.

Okey-Uche also urged the authorities to ensure that anyone found responsible for the passing of the Nigerians – Kenechukwu Igwemmadu, Olaniyi Olatunde, and Christian Nnaemeka – faces the law.

Okey-Uche added that Igwemmadu died on September 18 after jumping from a building while attempting to escape alleged police harassment and brutality at the Kenlin Court on Douglas Street, Bloemfontein.

She noted that two days later, Olatunde, a Nigerian security guard, was allegedly shot by unidentified South African, following an argument over a cup belonging to Spanata Bar and Grills Night Club in Mamelodi East, Pretoria.

Olatunde was said to have suffered a gunshot wound and was taken to Mamelodi Hospital, where he died on September 21.

The alleged shooter was said to have returned to the club and threatened witnesses before leaving the scene.

Meanwhile, Nnaemeka was reported to have died on September 21, following alleged encounter with South African politician and investigative content creator, Xolani Khumalo, and members of his Sizok’thola team in Primrose, Ekurhuleni.

The Consul-General said Nnaemeka was reported to have been assaulted and tortured during the encounter before attempting to escape.

“Nnaemeka was reported to have collapsed from his injuries and exhaustion, and later pronounced dead after being taken to hospital,” Okey-Uche said.

South Africa bar shooting death toll rises to 18

She recounted that on February 9, there was reported death of another Nigerian, Emeka Uzor, who was shot during encounter with Khumalo’s reality television crew in Windsor East, Randburg, saying no arrests has been made.

Okey-Uche stated: “The recent deaths raise concerns about the treatment and security of Nigerians, and other Africans in South Africa, amid xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks, threats and other forms of ill-treatment.

“All lives matter. Allegations must be handled through due process, with suspects presumed innocent and given opportunity to defend themselves in court.”

The Consul-General, therefore, urged Nigerians to remain calm, law-abiding, and security-conscious, while assuring to continue to pursue their interest, welfare and fair treatment.