#XENOPHOBIA: FG To Hold South Africa Accountable For Slain Nigerians
The federal government has demanded urgent accountability from South Africa following the deaths of two Nigerians and a wave of anti-foreigner protests, warning that the incidents threaten diplomatic relations and the safety of its nationals.
The government issued the strong position after inviting South Africa’s acting high commissioner to Nigeria, Lesoli Machele, to a meeting in Abuja on Monday with the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Dunoma Ahmed.
According to a statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, at the centre of the dispute are the deaths of Nnaemeka Matthew Ekpeyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro, both allegedly linked to assaults by South African security personnel.
“It was reported that on 21 April 2026, Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew Ekpeyong died while in the custody of the Tshwane Metro Police Department.
“Before his death, he reportedly sustained injuries attributed to personnel of the South African National Defence Force,” the ministry stated.
The government added that “Reports further indicate that a search of his residence yielded no incriminating evidence.
“The circumstances of his detention and death have raised concerns regarding the conduct of the security personnel involved.”
