Nigerian Consulate Condemns Deaths of Three Nigerians in South Africa

The Nigerian Consulate-General in Johannesburg has condemned the deaths of three Nigerians in separate incidents that occurred between September 18 and 21, 2026. The Consul-General, Amb. Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, shared this information in a statement on Monday, highlighting growing worries about the safety of Nigerians and other foreigners in South Africa.

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 from a building while trying to escape police harassment in Bloemfontein.

Olatunde was shot two days later at a nightclub in Pretoria. He worked as a security guard and was shot while trying to stop a customer from taking a cup belonging to the club. The shooter fled initially but later returned to threaten witnesses. Olatunde was taken to the hospital but died from his injuries on September 21.

The third victim, Nnaemeka, was reportedly tortured and killed on September 21 by a South African politician and his team during a supposed operation. The Consulate stated that Nnaemeka was arrested and beaten despite no evidence against him. He later collapsed and died at the hospital.

The Consulate expressed deep concern over these incidents, noting a troubling pattern of violence against Nigerians in South Africa. They called on South African authorities to thoroughly investigate the deaths and hold those responsible accountable.

Femi Fani-Kayode, Nigeria’s High Commissioner to South Africa, confirmed that these deaths bring the total number of Nigerians killed in South Africa this year to 12. He emphasized that none of those responsible for these crimes have been brought to justice.

The Consulate extended condolences to the families of the deceased and reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and fair treatment of Nigerians in South Africa.