The distressing story of the significant number of Nigerians killed in South Africa has garnered widespread attention. This tragic loss of lives can largely be attributed to the excessive use of force by the police, shedding light on urgent human rights issues that could further strain the relationship between Nigeria and South Africa. This underscores the importance of holding those responsible accountable and promoting a sense of responsibility. It is important to recognize the individuals whose lives have been affected by these incidents and to acknowledge the collective grief within the Nigerian community in South Africa, urging for immediate action and intervention.
This review will analyze police brutality against Nigerians in South Africa, including real life stories, statistics, patterns, and the efforts made by various government and non-governmental entities to protect Nigerian citizens. It will also explore the impact of such violence on the Nigerian diaspora, including safety concerns, cultural influence, and economic ramifications. The article aims to highlight ongoing issues and collective efforts to protect the rights and well-being of Nigerians abroad. You may use the table below to navigate this article.
Understanding the Gravity of the Situation
Reports of Nigerians Killed in South Africa
The rising cases of Nigerians killed in South Africa have become a cause for alarm in recent times. Reports indicate that 127 Nigerians have lost their lives over the course of three years, with 13 of these fatalities directly attributed to the actions of the South African Police Service. In the first half of 2019 alone, 10 Nigerians were killed either by South African citizens or law enforcement officials. What is particularly troubling about these incidents is the significant amount of extrajudicial killings carried out by the South African Police Service.
Nigerians Killed in South Africa: An Overview of Incidents
A recent distressing event of the 17th of May 2024 involved the tragic death of Ebuka Nwoko Nwokolo, a 43-year-old Nigerian from Anambra State. According to the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA), this incident is part of a troubling trend of police abuse targeting Nigerians in the Northern Cape. Law enforcement officers forcibly entered Ebuka’s residence and physically assaulted him, pressuring him to produce drugs even though he had none. The interrogation continued at a waste dump, resulting in his untimely death.
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. Analyzing the data from 2010 to 2019, 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 a 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 between 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, the executives of NUSA and the Deputy Consul General of the Nigerian Consulate in South Africa visited Sasolburg in the Free State Province. They condemned the killing of a Nigerian citizen named Chinonso Ifeeme and sought justice for him and other assaulted Nigerians in the province. They met with Colonel Galant, the commandant of the Sasolburg South African Police Services (SAPS), to express their disappointment.
The NUSA executives and Ambassador Oguntuyi emphasized collaboration between Nigerian and South African law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of Nigerian citizens in South Africa. They called for swift action in identifying and apprehending those responsible for attacks on Nigerians. The visit aimed to address the killing of Chinonso Ifeeme and seek justice for him and other Nigerian victims of violence, while emphasizing the need for adherence to the rule of law and protection of all individuals’ rights and safety, regardless of nationality.
Galant confirmed that NUSA’s intentions in the region were aligned. She clarified that Chinonso’s death, initially deemed a drug overdose, has now been reclassified as murder.
Within the Sasolburg Nigerian community, there has been speculation of police collusion with criminals due to perceived inaction. However, the police chief denied these allegations, citing lack of evidence hindering suspect apprehension. Colonel Galant urged assault victims in the city to file a complaint with the Sasolburg SAPS and provide evidence. The police can only take action based on a sworn statement, not verbal communication.
Regarding Mr. Austine Chidi Chijioke’s case, the Sasolburg SAPS temporarily closed it due to a lack of leads. The station commandant encouraged the victim and members of the Nigerian community to come forward with any information that could help catch the attackers. Mr. Austine argued that law enforcement should be responsible for identifying the accused after a witness statement is made, to protect the victim’s life. NUSA national representative agreed.
The meeting ended with the Deputy Consul General asking for an update on the investigation into Chinonso’s case. He emphasized the need for the police to speed up the inquiry to ensure timely justice.
Colonel Galant promised to review Mr. Chijioke’s lawsuit and consider assigning it to a different investigator. She also requested a formal written complaint from the Nigerian diplomat.
The station commandant plans to seek help from the district office and crime intelligence department in identifying and capturing the violent group. Ambassador Oguntuyi appealed to Nigerians to follow the law, assuring them that their rights will be protected by the mission. NUSA Acting President, Mrs. Doris Ikeri-Solarin, endorsed this statement and called for unity. The visitors were thanked for intervening in the crisis during a critical time. The search for Chinonso’s killers is ongoing.
Nigerian Killed in Free State due to Police Harassment and Vigilante Onslaught
A criminal vigilante group is causing chaos in Sasolburg, South Africa, targeting Nigerians both on the streets and in their homes. They rob, strip, and assault them, while the police are accused of being complicit in these crimes. Three people have died, but no arrests have been made. Survivors live in constant fear and are afraid to leave their homes.
During NUSA’s visit to Sasolburg, they spoke with Mr. Austine Chidi Chijioke, who represented the Nigerian Community in the city. He shared the community’s harrowing experiences since 2011. Recently, a vigilante group emerged alongside police harassment. Sadly, Mr. Ifeeme Chinonso, a friendly and promising young man, was tragically killed by this group on September 7, 2023. Austine suspected that Chinonso was targeted and assaulted in his own home by the same men shown in a video, based on the condition of his thoroughly searched residence after his death.
Chinonso was brutally beaten with dangerous objects. Mr. Ifeeme escaped to a nearby tuck shop, but the attackers pursued him. They forced the Pakistani owners to release him, and when they found him hiding, he had already lost consciousness. Sadly, he passed away before an ambulance arrived.
In another incident of police brutality and extrajudicial killing, a Zimbabwean woman married to a Nigerian man and a Nigerian man named Ikenna were also attacked and killed by the police. The woman died at the hospital she was taken to, while Ikenna died at his own home.
Another Nigerian man went to the police station to report an assault but was arrested because he didn’t have the necessary legal documents to be in the country. He is currently in detention as reported by NUSA.
Austine personally experienced a stabbing in his right eye while at the police station. He had gone there to report an attack by a violent group. During the incident, he witnessed the molestation of four Nigerians and tried to intervene. Ironically, the police officers fled the scene. Austine had to find his own way to a healthcare center for treatment and underwent surgery, resulting in scars. His condition remains critical.
Mr. Chijioke filed a case but later withdrew due to pressure. The police couldn’t apprehend the suspects, so the litigation is still ongoing. There are also allegations that the Sasolburg South African Police Services refused to open a case file for victimized Nigerians.
After reviewing the community’s perspective, union executives met with Colonel Galant, the station commander of Sasolburg police station. Colonel Galant stated that a report from her subordinate suggested Chionso might have been involved in drug dealing. The report revealed that Mr. Ifeeme had a confrontation with locals, resulting in his escape. Unfortunately, Chinonso died from a drug overdose, as drugs were found in his mouth. Colonel Galant mentioned that samples were taken for an autopsy to determine if the case should be classified as an inquest or a murder investigation. Further legal investigation will take place if it is determined to be the latter.
Concerns were raised about Sasolburg police refusing to open criminal cases against suspected attackers. After union intervention, Colonel Galant assured that cases involving Nigerians would be opened. The commandant couldn’t guarantee Nigerians’ safety due to manpower shortage, suggesting they travel in groups.
The Nigerian community disputed law enforcement’s claims about Mr. Ifeeme’s death and questioned the lack of proper investigation. The national executives of the union advised Nigerians to obey the law, avoid aggravating the host community, and await the ongoing investigations. The autopsy report released on September 18, 2023, confirmed that Mr. Ifeeme was murdered.
The examination revealed that he died from head injuries caused by dangerous objects. Evidence contradicts the initial police report of a drug overdose, suggesting a homicide. Colonel Galant is working to reclassify the case as a murder indictment.
The Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg has been informed and will take action. Plans to repatriate Chionso Ifeeme’s body to Nigeria are underway. The Nigerian community is shocked by the criminals responsible for these acts. They have been robbing, assaulting, and humiliating many Nigerians. NUSA sends condolences to Chinonso Ifeeme’s family, friends, and the Nigerian community in Sasolburg, South Africa.
Death of Nigerian Citizen in SAPS Custody in Polokwane
“With heavy hearts, we regret to inform you of the passing of Mr. Ejike Ekemezie, who allegedly lost his life at the hands of South African law enforcement officials. This tragic incident took place on the evening of Sunday, March 26, 2023, in Polokwane, Limpopo province”, read in part a statement from NUSA.
According to witnesses, particularly a detained individual who was arrested alongside the deceased and is currently in police custody as of the time of writing this report, a group of six cars abruptly came to a stop near their location that evening. The sudden halt of the vehicles caused them to panic and flee. However, the occupants of the cars pursued them and managed to apprehend five individuals, including one Zimbabwean.
They were taken to the K9 unit facility on the outskirts of Polokwane CBD and physically assaulted by officers. Mr Ejike died tragically, and the remaining five individuals suffered severe injuries. One victim, Uche (BB), was assaulted so brutally that it affected his kidney function, requiring him to use a catheter for urination.
To find answers about this incident, former NUSA President Hon. Collins Mgbo, representatives from the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg, and community leaders visited the Polokwane Station Commander. The commander claimed ignorance and denied authorization for the operation. However, he advised them to approach the provincial organized crime division, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), and the dog unit for information.
The head of the Organized Crime division had no knowledge of the case, while the dog division leader avoided them, saying he was unavailable. Later, the Consulate representative, Nigerian Union President, and community leaders met with the IPID office in Polokwane. They were assured that the ongoing investigation would be handled fairly after a postmortem examination. The Nigerian community requested a private pathologist, which was agreed upon by both teams.
Hon. Collins and community leaders visited the mortuary to identify the body of the deceased. They found wrist and toe tags indicating a drug overdose as the cause of death. However, they observed bruises all over Mr. Ejike’s body and blood coming from his ears, suggesting foul play. This contradicts the eyewitness account stating that Mr. Ejike was tortured to death.
The police denied any involvement and pointed the finger at Moja Love, a private company on DSTV channel 157. As an investigation is ongoing, not much can be said about this private entity at this time. The President of the Nigeria Union South Africa has urged the Nigerian community in the city to stay calm and let the authorities handle the investigation.
Nigerian Community Meeting with SA Law Enforcement and Host Community in Limpopo, Addressing Ejike Ekemezie’s Death
The National Working Committee of NUSA and the Polokwane chapter met with the Polokwane Community Policing Forum and the Station Commander of Polokwane Police station. The meeting aimed to improve relations between the Nigerian Community in Polokwane and local law enforcement agencies, in light of the death of Mr. Ejike Ekemezie in police custody in March 2023.
During the meeting, suggestions were made to involve the Nigerian community in combating crime in Polokwane. It was discovered that individuals from other nationalities commit crimes while pretending to be Nigerians. In response, the Union proposed that security authorities work with Nigerian leaders to identify and expose the true identities of those involved in criminal acts.
NUSA leaders also requested collaboration for a campaign to prevent and alleviate crime. This campaign will include the Police and community members in Polokwane. The goal is to reassure law enforcement and locals that Nigerians are against criminal activities. If any Nigerians are found engaging in illegal behavior, they should face consequences.
The Police advised the Nigerian Union on the steps for getting attention and approval for our proposals. We will inform our members about the outcome and schedule another meeting with law enforcement agencies. Updates on the follow-up meeting will be provided later. Read NUSA’s press statement for more information.
Kenneth & Co. killed in Johannesburg
Condolences are expressed for the tragic death of a Nigerian individual named Keneth. He was shot while socializing with friends on Main Street in Johannesburg on January 31st, 2023. Witnesses reported that a white Mercedes Benz approached and the attackers called out his name before shooting him. Despite being taken to the hospital, Keneth did not survive his injuries. This incident adds to a series of targeted murders against the Nigerian community in recent months.
On January 28, 2023, two individuals named Shokunbi Babatunde Olalekan and “Dashu” were tragically killed in separate incidents in Rosettenvile and Midrand. Mr. Babatunde was fatally shot at a local gathering place known for serving an alcoholic herbal mixture called “agbo jedi,” popular in southwestern Nigeria. The cocktail bar owner was also hit by a stray bullet and passed away two days after Babatunde’s murder. In another incident, “Dashu” from Ihiala, Anambra state, Nigeria, was shot at a shopping center in Midrand. Additionally, on January 23, 2023, Abayomi was also fatally shot in Midrand.
“Dear Nigerians, we must act now to address the seriousness of the situation. In Gauteng alone, over five lives have been lost in just one month. It is imperative that all stakeholders come together to intervene and put an end to these senseless killings caused by a long-standing issue of deadly attacks under different motives”.
“NUSA is notifying community leaders to expect letters regarding a problem. They propose discussing solutions and will also contact the High Commission of Nigeria to South Africa and The Consulate General. If needed, they will involve the Foreign Affairs Ministry. They ask South African law enforcement to take action against the criminals and urge everyone to prioritize safety and report suspicious activities. They express condolences to the families of the deceased.”
Eviction of Nigerians in Postmasburg, Northern Cape And The Response of NUSA & The Nigerian Consulate
On June 4, 2022, NUSA responded to the situation in Postmasburg, Northern Cape. 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 with Kingsley Steven appointed as 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, have organised several meetings along with the Nigerian Cosulate 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. The purpose of these meetings is 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 | |||||||
| 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 | He was killed by a mob attack at his home | |||||
| 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 Nigerian teenager still in high school, shot dead on his way to a Spaza shop | 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 | |||||||
How To Report Police Brutality in South Africa
If you have experienced police brutality as a Nigerian living in South Africa, you can provide details after reporting and opening a case with SAPS to IPID, or you can reach out to NUSA regarding any instances of police Brutality, police homicide, unsolved Nigerian citizen killings, and unjust treatment by the South African Police Service (SAPS). Please forward only cases reported at the police station to NUSA at secretariat.nusa@yahoo.co.za
NUSA will require the following information:
- Victim’s Name
- Case Number
- Incident Location
- Concise account of what transpired
- Contact details of the victim or their representative.
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, have 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!