The deaths of numerous Nigerians in South Africa due to police brutality have drawn widespread concern. This tragic situation highlights critical human rights issues that could impact Nigeria-South Africa relations. The incident calls for accountability and recognition of the affected Nigerian community’s grief, demanding urgent action. This review examines police brutality against Nigerians in South Africa, analyzing incidents, data, and protection efforts by various organizations. It explores the impact on the Nigerian diaspora’s safety, culture, and economy while highlighting key issues and initiatives to safeguard Nigerians abroad.
Understanding the Gravity of the Situation
Reports of Nigerians Killed in South Africa
The increasing deaths of Nigerians in South Africa have become concerning. Statistics show 127 Nigerians died over three years, with 13 killed by South African police. In early 2019, 10 Nigerians were killed by citizens or police, highlighting a disturbing trend of extrajudicial killings.
Nigerians Killed in South Africa: An Overview of Incidents
On May 17th, 2024, Ebuka Nwoko Nwokolo, a 43-year-old Nigerian, died tragically after police brutality in the Northern Cape. According to NUSA, officers invaded his home, assaulted him while demanding drugs, and continued interrogation at a dump site.
The officers’ conduct was deemed extremely inappropriate, involving the use of forceful methods like pepper spray. This highlights the seriousness of the mistreatment. The mishandling of the crime scene and subsequent investigation has raised doubts about its integrity. NUSA is urgently demanding an unbiased inquiry into both the killing and the broader issue of police abuse in the area.
The complex criminal landscape in which these fatalities take place is highlighted by South Africa’s ongoing battle against different types of trafficking, including human trafficking and the illicit drug trade.
Police brutality against Nigerians is not limited to the Northern Cape. Similar acts of violence have been reported in various provinces of South Africa, indicating a widespread problem. The Nigerian community in South Africa has expressed their dissatisfaction with their treatment, and incidents like Ebuka’s tragic death only amplify their demands for accountability.
Key Statistics, Stories and Trends
Yearly Breakdown of Nigerians Killed in South Africa
The number of Nigerians killed in South Africa has seen a troubling rise from 2010 to 2023. Certain years require further investigation due to significant spikes in these incidents. The data from 2010 to 2019 shows that there has been a gradual increase in such cases. However, in 2019, there was a noticeable surge, with reports of 10 Nigerians killed in South Africa between January and June alone. This period includes the unfortunate case of Badmus Olalekan from Lagos State, whose death at the hands of South African police officers resulted in significant legal proceedings.
Comparison of Incidents Involving Police and Civilians
The analysis of incidents between civilians and the police reveals a troubling trend of brutality. Reports indicate that a large number of the 127 Nigerians killed in South Africa over a three-year period were subjected to unlawful actions by law enforcement. One notable case is that of Badmus Olalekan, which gained widespread attention due to the involvement of South African police. As a result, eight officers were arrested and taken to court, shedding light on a serious issue within the South African Police Service regarding their treatment of Nigerian citizens.
Attacks on Nigerians by SAPS in Ermelo And Hendrina in Mpumalanga
Nigerian residents in Ermelo and Hendrina, South Africa, faced attacks from some members of the local police force during the Christmas season between December 17th and 28th, 2023. Several people were hospitalized and there were reports of corrupt officers breaking into homes and stealing belongings.
In response, the Nigerian Union South Africa National Executives, led by President Mrs. Doris Ikeri-Solarin, and representatives from the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg visited the Ermelo police station and district office. They sought to understand the reasons behind these violent acts targeting Nigerians in the province. Senior law enforcement officials expressed regret and promised to address the situation
Chinonso Ifeeme: A Nigerian Killed in Sasolburg, Free State, South Africa
On September 27, 2023, NUSA executives and the Nigerian Deputy Consul General visited Sasolburg, South Africa, to address the murder of Nigerian citizen Chinonso Ifeeme and seek justice for assaulting Nigerians. They met with Colonel Galant of the Sasolburg South African Police Services (SAPS) to discuss their concerns.
The officials emphasized collaboration between Nigerian and South African law enforcement to protect Nigerian citizens. Colonel Galant confirmed that Chinonso’s death, initially considered a drug overdose, is now classified as murder.
While the Nigerian community suspected police collusion with criminals, the police chief denied these claims, citing a lack of evidence. She urged assault victims to file formal complaints with evidence, as police can only act on sworn statements.
Regarding Mr Austine Chidi Chijioke’s case, temporarily closed due to a lack of leads, the commandant requested community assistance in identifying attackers. The Deputy Consul General asked for updates on Chinonso’s investigation and urged faster inquiry.
Colonel Galant promised to review Mr Chijioke’s case and seek help from the district office and crime intelligence department. Ambassador Oguntuyi encouraged Nigerians to follow the law, while NUSA Acting President Mrs. Doris Ikeri-Solarin called for unity. The investigation into Chinonso’s murder continues.
Nigerian Killed in Free State Due to Police Harassment and Vigilante Onslaught
A criminal vigilante group is terrorizing Nigerians in Sasolburg, South Africa, conducting violent attacks both on streets and in homes. Despite three deaths, no arrests have been made, while police are allegedly complicit in these crimes. Victims live in constant fear, afraid to venture outside.
During NUSA’s visit, Mr Austine Chidi Chijioke, representing the Nigerian Community, detailed their ordeals since 2011. Recently, Mr Ifeeme Chinonso was killed by the vigilante group on September 7, 2023. After being brutally beaten in his home, Chinonso fled to a nearby shop but was pursued and died before medical help arrived. In separate incidents, a Zimbabwean woman married to a Nigerian and a man named Ikenna were killed by police. Another Nigerian reporting an assault was detained for lacking proper documentation.
Austine himself was stabbed in the eye at the police station while reporting an attack. He witnessed four Nigerians being molested as police officers fled the scene. Though he filed a case, he withdrew under pressure. The police failed to arrest suspects, and allegations persist that Sasolburg police refuse to open case files for Nigerian victims.
After meeting with the community, union executives consulted Colonel Galant, Sasolburg’s station commander. She claimed a subordinate’s report suggested Chionso was involved in drug dealing and died from an overdose after a confrontation with locals. Samples were taken for autopsy to determine if the case warranted a murder investigation.
Following Union intervention, Colonel Galant agreed to open cases involving Nigerians but couldn’t guarantee their safety due to staff shortages. The Nigerian community disputed the police’s account of Mr Ifeeme’s death.
The September 18 autopsy report confirmed murder, revealing fatal head injuries from dangerous objects, contradicting the initial drug overdose claim. Colonel Galant is now working to reclassify the case as a murder case.
The Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg has been notified, and arrangements for body repatriation are ongoing. NUSA extends condolences to Ifeeme’s family and the Nigerian community in Sasolburg.
Death of Nigerian Citizen in SAPS Custody in Polokwane
Mr Ejike Ekemezie tragically lost his life on March 26, 2023, in Polokwane, Limpopo province, allegedly at the hands of South African law enforcement officials, according to the Nigeria Union South Africa (NUSA).
Witnesses report that six cars suddenly stopped near their location that evening, causing them to flee. The car occupants caught five people, including one Zimbabwean. At the K9 unit facility, officers reportedly assaulted them. Mr. Ejike died, and the others sustained severe injuries, with one victim, Uche (BB), suffering kidney damage.
Former NUSA President Collins Mgbo, Nigerian Consulate representatives, and community leaders investigated the incident. The Polokwane Station Commander denied authorizing the operation and directed them to other departments. The Organized Crime division claimed no knowledge, while the dog unit was unavailable.
At the mortuary, they found tags indicating drug overdose as the cause of death. However, they observed bruises and blood from Mr. Ejike’s ears, contradicting the official report and supporting witness accounts of torture.
The police denied involvement and implicated Moja Love, a private DSTV channel company. As investigations continue through IPID, the Nigeria Union South Africa has urged the Nigerian community to remain calm.
Nigerian Community Meeting with SA Law Enforcement and Host Community in Limpopo, Addressing Ejike Ekemezie’s Death
NUSA’s National Working Committee and Polokwane chapter met with the Polokwane Community Policing Forum and Station Commander following Mr. Ejike Ekemezie’s death in police custody in March 2023.
The meeting addressed improving Nigerian relations in Polokwane. It was noted that criminals from other nationalities often pose as Nigerians. The Union proposed working with police to identify actual perpetrators.
NUSA requested collaboration on a crime prevention campaign with police and community members to demonstrate Nigerians’ stance against crime. Any Nigerian found committing crimes should face the consequences.
The Police provided guidance on getting approval for these proposals. A follow-up meeting will be scheduled.
Kenneth & Co. killed in Johannesburg
Eviction of Nigerians in Postmasburg, Northern Cape And The Response of NUSA & The Nigerian Consulate
On June 4, 2022, NUSA responded to the Postmasburg, Northern Cape situation. Currently, the situation is calm. Nigerians in the town were asked to leave voluntarily or face eviction, resulting in 28 individuals fleeing their homes and businesses. Mr. Sam Odua and Mr. Collins Mgbo, representing the Consul General of Nigeria and NUSA, respectively, visited Postmasburg and Kimberley to meet with the police, Nigerians residing there, and other stakeholders. After a productive discussion, Brigadier Jansen Van Rensburg, acting Provincial Police Commissioner, promised to work with his team to restore peace in Postmasburg.
NUSA expressed gratitude to the Consul General for his support and care towards affected Nigerians. He is actively working to offer temporary aid to those impacted. Sam and Collins advised Nigerians in Postmansburg to follow the law as law enforcement agencies strive to restore peace.
Nigerians in Musina Face Government Officials’ Harassment.
NUSA leadership, headed by President-General Collins Thomas Mgbo, visited the Municipal Manager of Musina Local Municipality and the Station Commander of Musina Police on January 28, 2022, to address the harassment faced by Nigerians in Musina.
Nigerian traders in Musina Local Municipality have faced discrimination and harassment from certain government officials since October 2021. These officials have forced them to leave their businesses and explicitly stated that Nigerians are not allowed to engage in commercial activities in the area. The Municipal Manager has apologized for the treatment and promised to investigate, sharing the findings with the President of the Nigeria Union.
The Municipal Manager will personally oversee the issuance of traders’ permits to qualified Nigerians. The Nigeria Union South Africa filed a complaint about frequent arrests of Nigerians in Musina, which was addressed by the Station Commander, who pledged to protect human rights and prevent infringements. A ward structure for the Nigeria Union South Africa (NUSA) was established in Musina, and Kingsley Steven was appointed interim chairman. The President-General stressed the need for Nigerians to stay out of trouble and follow the law during the opening ceremony of the new ward.
He urged Nigerians to avoid illegal activities as the Union works on improving Nigeria’s image in South Africa. These visits have brought a sense of normalcy, belonging, and confidence to Nigerians in Musina.
Nigerian Man Killed By South African Mob in Mistaken Kidnapping Accusation
A mob attack in South Africa resulted in the death of Samuel Nkennaya, a 34-year-old Nigerian. Another Nigerian, Chinonso Nwudo, was left critically injured. The attack happened after bystanders falsely accused them of kidnapping Nwudo’s daughter.
Following the incident, the local community immediately surrounded two individuals from Nigeria without asking questions. One of them, Nwudo, desperately claimed that the girl was his daughter and pleaded for help from his South African wife to confirm his identity. The plea saved his life. Police intervened and called for backup to rescue the victims. Sadly, Nkennaya died in the hospital on April 28, while Nwudo remains in critical condition. Mr Ayanfe-Oyebanjo mentioned that two South Africans were recently murdered on suspicion of kidnapping a child in the same area. He urged Nigerians in the province to remain calm and informed that a murder case had been filed at the White River Police station due to these unprovoked attacks.
The incident has been reported to NUSA’s national secretariat, and the union is seeking justice. Adetola Olubajo, President of NUSA, confirmed the killing. Mr Nwudo’s wife, Katlekho Ndlovu, verified the incident over the phone. The attackers brutally assaulted Mr Nwudo until he lost consciousness. He is now in the hospital, while his uncle has passed away.
Two Nigerians Killed In Gauteng On The Same Day
Two Nigerians were murdered in Gauteng, South Africa, today. The first incident happened in Sunnyside, Pretoria, at 8 am, and the second in Balfour Park, Johannesburg, at 5 pm. The victims were killed deliberately, and no belongings were taken from them. The identities of the deceased have been obtained by NUSA but cannot be disclosed until their families are notified.
The challenges faced by Nigerians in South Africa are connected to a wider network of unlawful activities. South Africa’s fight against various forms of trafficking, such as human trafficking, illegal arms, and narcotics, highlights the complex criminal environment where these incidents occur. This makes it harder to address these injustices effectively and increases the risks for Nigerians.
Nigerians in Kimberly And Anti-Crime Campaign
On October 16th, 2020, Hon. Adetola Olubajo led the NUSA Anti-Crime Campaign in Kimberley, Northern Cape. The event garnered support from local political structures, the Community Policing Forum, SAPS Kimberley, and community-based organizations.
Responses and Actions Taken on Nigerians Killed in South Africa
Official Responses from Nigerian and South African Authorities
The Nigerian government strongly condemns violent attacks and the resulting casualties of Nigerians in South Africa. Official statements denouncing these acts have been issued by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerian parliament, and the office of the President.
On June 5, 2024, in response to the tragic death of Ebuka Nwokolo, a Nigerian living in South Africa, the Nigerian House of Representatives approved a resolution calling for action. The Chairman of the Committee on Diaspora, Hon. Tochukwu Chinedu Okere, sought intervention regarding the loss of Nigerian lives at the hands of SAPS in South Africa.
The South African government, on the other hand, has faced criticism for not treating xenophobia as a crime and has been urged to take action against its underlying causes. There is also a demand for South African citizens to be more accepting of other Africans, particularly Nigerians. The media has been called upon to stop negatively portraying and stereotyping other Africans.
Nigeria’s Consul General visits Gauteng Provincial Police Command to Ensure Safety of Nigerians in South Africa.
The Consul General of Nigeria in South Africa and colleagues visited the Gauteng Provincial Police Command to address threats faced by Nigerian citizens. They secured improved security measures for Nigerians living in various areas. NUSA thanked the Consul General for his efforts in ensuring their safety and protection from criminals.
Efforts by Diaspora Communities and Nigerian Organizations in South Africa
The mainstream Nigerian community organisations in South Africa, the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) and Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA) have consistently expressed their strong disapproval of the violence and urged comprehensive and transparent investigations into the incidences. These forums remain dedicated to promoting fairness and protecting Nigerian citizens’ human rights outside the country. These community organisations also have good working relations with the Nigerian government representative agencies. NUSA, for example, has organised several meetings along with the Nigerian Consulate and High Commission in South Africa in response to issues concerning the welfare of Nigerians in South Africa. It is also noteworthy to mention the efforts of The Nigerian Diaspora Forum (NDF) towards condemning these recurring avoidable tragedies in South Africa.
Public protests have also played a pivotal role in raising awareness about these concerns. In South Africa, the Nigeria Union South Africa (NUSA) has organized multiple street demonstrations to express their indignation against the violence. These protests have taken place in Pretoria and Johannesburg, where NUSA members have called for an end to xenophobia and police brutality. Additionally, the office of the Premier of Gauteng has arranged social cohesion events that witnessed substantial participation from the Nigerian and African communities. Notable local personalities and political parties, such as the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader, Julius Malema, have shown solidarity with the Nigerian people and called for peaceful co-existence.
Meanwhile, to alleviate the tensions between the Nigerian immigrant community and law enforcement in South Africa, multiple gatherings have taken place involving local police chiefs, host community leaders and municipal managers. These meetings aim to tackle and diminish the increasing tensions and guarantee enhanced security for the Nigerian community.
The collaborative endeavours of governmental and non-governmental entities underscore a comprehensive strategy aimed at tackling and resolving the problems of police brutality and xenophobia impacting Nigerians in South Africa.
Implications and Ongoing Concerns On Nigerians Killed In South Africa
Impact on Nigeria-South Africa Relations
The xenophobic assaults targeting Nigerians in South Africa have reached a critical juncture, resulting in severe repercussions for the diplomatic ties between the two countries. The number of Nigerian compatriots who have lost their lives in these attacks has reached around 116, which not only signifies a significant human tragedy but also poses a substantial risk to our external relations with South Africa. This situation has sparked tension, negatively impacting social, economic, and political interactions with Nigerian celebraties refusing to visit South Africa. Failing to address and quell these acts of xenophobic violence effectively could potentially trigger regional conflicts, profoundly affecting the relationship between Nigeria and South Africa in various spheres.
The Role of Xenophobia and Criminal Activities
The significance of xenophobia in these incidents cannot be underestimated, as it has resulted in significant and wide-ranging effects on the political relationship between Nigeria and South Africa. If the Nigerian and South African governments fail to gather enough political determination to address this atrocious situation, it has the potential to sever our ties. In diplomatic circles, serious disagreements often lead to the recall of ambassadors, a process that takes considerable time to reverse. Considering South Africa and Nigeria’s positions on the African continent, such breakdowns could also have negative consequences for the progress of other African nations.
After the xenophobic attacks in April 2015, the global community, including the United Nations Security Council and neighbouring nations such as Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Malawi, expressed their condemnation of these acts. Nigeria responded by recalling its diplomats in South Africa, emphasizing the escalating tensions. Nigeria’s decision was based on the belief that the South African government was not doing enough to ensure the safety of Nigerian citizens, who were seen as the main victims.
Table showing A List of Nigerians Killed in South Africa
| s/n | Date | Name | Age | State of origin | Cause of death | Incidence location | Murder Case Status |
| 2024 | |||||||
| 16th December | Chinedu Stanley Asuzu | Aro-ndizuogu, Imo State | Shot dead y assailants at his home | Johannesburg South | Docket opened | ||
| 10th Decemer | Chukwunta Julius Friday | 37 | Aninri LGA, Enugu State | At Protea Estate, Noordwyk, a parking dispute led to a brick attack on Julius. Four suspects were arrested, with more arrests pending police investigation. | Protea Estate, Noordwyk. | Docket opened: bail granted to three out of the four accused; Case adjourned to February 3rd 2025; | |
| 17th May | Ebuka Nwokolo | 43 | Anambra State | Beaten to death by South African Police Service officers | Danielskull, Northern Cape, South Africa | Docket opened | |
| 25th April | Chika Aniuno | He was fatally shot at his residence in Springs, East Rand, Gauteng | Docket opened | ||||
| 2023 | |||||||
| 7th September | Ifeeme Chinonso | 10th December | |||||
| 2022 | |||||||
| February 17 | Nicholas John | Ogun State | Mob attack | Northern Cape | |||
| 2021 | |||||||
| 12, December | Olusola Solarin | Makun Community, Sagamu, near Abeokuta, Ogun State | Violent robbery led to death | Johannesburg | Docket opened | ||
| 2020 | |||||||
| 2019 | |||||||
| August 3 | Benjamin Okoronkwo | 43 | Okposi, Ohaozara Local Government of Ebonyi State | Taxify driver shot dead by unknown assailants at about 3 a.m | Johannesburg | Docket opened | |
| 21 July | Chinonso Dennis Obiaju | 17 | A mob attack at his home killed him | Roodepoort, Johannesburg | Docket opened | ||
| June 13 | Mrs Obianuju Ndubuisi-Chukwu (Deputy Director-General of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria – CIIN) | 53 | Ihiala, Anambra State | Uju was strangled in her hotel room at Emperors Palace while attending the African Insurance Organisation, AIO, conference in Johannesburg, South Africa | Emperors Palace, Johannesburg | Docket opened | |
| 2018 | |||||||
| Jan. 18 | Emeka Okoli | Emeka was robbed and shot by a SAPS official at close range | Constable, Austin Reynold has been sentenced to 32 years in prison (7 years for counts of robbery and 25 years for the count of murder) | ||||
| 2017 | |||||||
| October 10 | Badmus Olalekan Ibrahim | 25 | Lagos State | Tortured and killed by SAPS | Vanderbijlpark | ||
| 2016 | |||||||
| 2015 | |||||||
| 2014 | |||||||
| 2013 | |||||||
| 2012 | |||||||
| 2011 | |||||||
| 2010 | |||||||
| 2009 | |||||||
| 2008 | |||||||
| 2007 | |||||||
Final Word on Nigerians Killed in South Africa
In this review, we have discovered the difficult challenges experienced by Nigerians living in South Africa, characterized by a string of devastating losses mostly caused by police brutality. This article on Nigerians killed in South Africa, supported by alarming data and heart-wrenching stories, has illuminated the grave circumstances and prompted vital inquiries into the efficacy of actions taken by Nigerian and South African authorities. The shared sorrow and anger within the Nigerian community have emphasized the immediate need for efficient interventions and the advancement of fairness and accountability to protect the rights and well-being of Nigerians living abroad.
Considering the larger consequences, the continuing acts of aggression towards Nigerians in South Africa present notable obstacles to the diplomatic ties between the two nations. These challenges have the potential to extend beyond their borders, ultimately impacting regional stability in Africa. Promoting tolerance, empathy, and collaboration between Nigerian and South African authorities and communities becomes crucial as we strive to address these intricate matters. Only through these collective endeavours can we strive to avoid additional casualties and establish a future where the safety and integrity of all individuals are honoured and safeguarded.
FAQs on Nigerians Killed in South Africa
1. How many Nigerians have died in South Africa in recent years?
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), it is estimated that over the course of the past three years, at least 128 Nigerian citizens have lost their lives in South Africa. These unfortunate deaths, which happened between 2019 and February 2022, are primarily attributed to acts of xenophobic violence. Despite the Nigerian government’s efforts, these tragic occurrences persist without substantial resolution.
2. Why are Nigerians often targeted in South Africa?
Some Nigerians living in South Africa have been engaged in a range of illicit activities, such as the smuggling of drugs, the trafficking of humans for sexual exploitation, and online scams. The South African media has consistently faced scrutiny for sensationalizing and condemning these activities, often depicting Nigerian immigrants as criminals. This portrayal has intensified xenophobic sentiments and portrayed them as potential dangers to South Africa’s economic stability
I love this website, thanks for acknowledging the Nigerians who passed away in SA. I also lost a friend recently in 2022 to murder at the hands of a Congolese man here in SA-currently on the run. His name is Chidibere.
Hi Nancy, I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your friend. May God grant you the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss. And thank you very much for reading the posts and for also stopping by to drop a comment. Please stay tuned!