The Federal Government has called for a full investigation and autopsy reports following the killing of two Nigerians in South Africa.
The development was disclosed by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, after a meeting between the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Dunoma Ahmed, and South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner, Lesoli Machele on Monday.
According to Ebienfa, Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in South Africa is closely monitoring the situation after the victims were reportedly killed in violent attacks.
He noted that South African authorities have condemned the incidents and pledged to carry out a full investigation, but stressed that the Nigerian government is demanding more concrete actions.
“The Government of Nigeria condemned the violence against Nigerians in South Africa, including the recent deaths of Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew Ekpeyong and Kelvin Chidiebere Amaramiro following alleged assaults by security personnel,” he said.
He added that the incidents have heightened anxiety within the Nigerian community in South Africa, necessitating urgent and credible responses from authorities.
“We therefore request thorough and impartial investigations into both deaths, including prompt sharing of preliminary findings and regular updates with the Government of Nigeria,” Ebienfa stated.
Nigeria is also seeking full cooperation in providing autopsy reports, post-mortem documentation, and access to relevant case files, as well as ensuring that the families of the deceased can participate in legal processes.
“As a precautionary measure, Nigeria emphasizes the need for accountability where wrongdoing is established, including appropriate disciplinary and prosecutorial action against implicated personnel,” he added.
The spokesperson recalled that both countries had previously signed a Memorandum of Understanding on early warning mechanisms and urged South Africa to fast-track its implementation to prevent similar incidents.
He said the Acting High Commissioner assured that Nigeria’s concerns would be communicated to authorities in Pretoria, with further updates expected.
On possible repatriation, Ebienfa revealed that about 130 Nigerians have indicated interest in returning home, with documentation already underway.
He noted that the process is currently self-funded, advising interested individuals to contact the Nigerian mission in Pretoria.
He added, however, that the Federal Government may step in to assist those unable to cover travel costs.
Ebienfa also confirmed that no arrests have been made so far, but said South African authorities have assured that those responsible would be brought to justice.
