The Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg has formally condemned the killing of two Nigerian citizens, Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, following alleged brutal encounters with South African security personnel.
The Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg has strongly condemned the killing of two Nigerians, Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, following separate incidents involving the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and local police. In a statement issued on Monday, the Consul-General, Amb. Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, expressed profound shock over the deaths, which have sparked renewed fears regarding the safety of foreign nationals. Emmanuel reportedly died from injuries sustained during a brutal assault by military personnel on April 20, 2026, while Andrew’s body was discovered in a mortuary under unclear circumstances following an altercation with Tshwane Metro Police.
Ambassador Okey-Uche warned against the dangerous trend of profiling Nigerians as criminals, noting that such generalizations endanger innocent lives. She called for a transparent and impartial investigation into the “gruesome act,” insisting that the perpetrators must be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. “On this, we are calling on South African authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter and bring the perpetrators of the gruesome act to justice,” she stated. The Consul-General further emphasized the necessity of due process, adding, “Our position is that no matter what the allegations may be, there are lawful processes and steps to justice. All should be presumed innocent and granted fair treatment and hearing in a court of law.”
While urging the Nigerian community in South Africa to remain calm and law-abiding, the Consulate confirmed that formal cases have been opened and are being monitored. The mission specifically called on the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) to expedite inquiries to establish the facts surrounding the two deaths. Underscoring the need for accountability, Okey-Uche remarked, “No one should take laws into their own hands under any circumstances. We hope to achieve the ultimate prosecution of the perpetrators.” She welcomed the commencement of investigations and reiterated that the Consulate would continue to advocate for the protection and fair treatment of all its citizens.
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