PRETORIA, South Africa — Two Nigerian nationals have been killed in South Africa amid a surge of anti-migrant violence, prompting strong condemnation from Abuja. The fatalities occurred on June 28, escalating regional tensions as xenophobic attacks continue to target foreign nationals from across the African continent.
According to Nigerian authorities, the two men died under different circumstances in separate incidents. One of the victims was allegedly killed by police officers in the capital city of Pretoria, while the other was fatally attacked by unidentified assailants in Mpumalanga province. South African police have not yet released a statement or comment regarding the incidents.
The deaths occurred in the buildup to the expiration of an unofficial, months-long deadline issued by anti-illegal immigrant groups demanding that foreigners leave the country. Anti-migrant protesters have been demonstrating against foreign nationals, blaming them for high unemployment rates, elevated crime levels, and increased pressure on public services.
The recent wave of violence and targeted attacks on African migrants has forced several nations to intervene. Countries including Nigeria, Ghana, and Zimbabwe have already repatriated thousands of their citizens to ensure their safety.
In a statement published on the social media platform X on Sunday, a spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs formally condemned the killing of the two men. The Ministry urged the South African government to launch a swift and thorough investigation into the deaths. Furthermore, the Nigerian government warned that it is prepared to take unspecified measures if the deadly attacks on its citizens persist.
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