The Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg has condemned the killing of two Nigerians, Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, by personnel of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).

The Consul-General, Amb. Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, made this known in a statement issued on Monday following the deaths.

She said the incidents had raised fresh concerns over the safety of Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa, noting that the developments had left the victims’ families, the Nigerian community, and diplomatic missions in shock.

Okey-Uche warned against the growing trend of generalising Nigerians as criminals, stressing that such narratives pose serious risks to innocent citizens living in the country.

She said, “On this, we are calling on South African authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter and bring the perpetrators of the gruesome act to justice.

“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.

“No one should take laws into their own hands under any circumstances. We hope to achieve the ultimate prosecution of the perpetrators,” she said.

She urged Nigerians in South Africa to remain calm, law-abiding, and continue their daily activities within the bounds of the law.

The Consul-General disclosed that the Consulate had received a preliminary investigation report on the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

According to her, Emmanuel died from injuries allegedly sustained during a brutal assault by military personnel on April 20, 2026.

Andrew, on the other hand, was reportedly involved in an altercation with members of the Tshwane Metro Police before his arrest on April 19 in the Booysens area of Pretoria. His body was later found at the Pretoria Central Mortuary under unclear circumstances.

“A formal case has been opened with the South African Police Service and the matter is being investigated.

“We welcome this development and underscore the importance of ensuring the investigation is conducted in a thorough, transparent, and impartial manner.

“In this regard, the Consulate-General respectfully calls on the relevant South African authorities, including the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), to expedite inquiries and establish the facts surrounding this incident,” she said.

Okey-Uche added that the Consulate is engaging with relevant South African authorities and closely monitoring the situation.

“We are poised to assist the family of the deceased to provide necessary Consular support and assistance,” she said.

She also extended condolences to the families of the victims and reaffirmed the Consulate’s commitment to protecting the welfare and ensuring fair treatment of Nigerians in South Africa.

The Nigerian envoy further urged members of the Nigerian community to remain calm and allow authorities to carry out their investigations.
By Adam Mosadioluwa
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