Two Nigerians Die in South Africa as Consulate Demands Independent Probe

Fresh concerns have emerged within the Nigerian community in South Africa after two Nigerian nationals died in separate incidents linked to security officials. The Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg is now demanding urgent investigations, saying both cases have caused fear, grief, and serious questions about the treatment of foreign nationals.

The first victim, Amaramiro Emmanuel, reportedly died on April 20 after suffering injuries allegedly caused by members of the South African National Defence Force. Details surrounding the encounter remain unclear, but diplomats say the incident has deeply unsettled Nigerians living in the country.

In a separate development, Ekpenyong Andrew was arrested a day earlier in the Booysens area of Pretoria following an alleged dispute involving officers from the Tshwane Metro Police. His death was later confirmed after his body was found at the Pretoria Central Mortuary, raising demands for clarity over what happened after he was taken into custody.

Nigerian Consul-General Ninikanwa Okey-Uche described both incidents as troubling and heartbreaking. She said official complaints have been lodged with the South African Police Service, while the Independent Police Investigative Directorate has been urged to carry out a transparent and impartial probe.

She also warned against labeling Nigerians as criminals because of their nationality, saying such stereotypes only worsen tensions. The consulate has appealed for calm among Nigerians in South Africa and pledged support for the affected families as investigations continue.