The Nigerian Consulate-General in Johannesburg has called on South African authorities to investigate the deaths of three Nigerians in separate incidents and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought to justice.

According to Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to South Africa, Femi Fani-Kayode, the three Nigerians were killed between September 18 and 21, 2026.

They were identified as Kenechukwu Christopher Igwemmadu, who was killed in Bloemfontein; Olaniyi Olaleye Olatunde, who died in Pretoria; and Christian Hillary Nnaemeka, who died in Primrose, Ekurhuleni.

Nnaemeka reportedly died on September 21 following an alleged encounter with South African politician and content creator Xolani Khumalo and members of his Sizok'thola team in Primrose. The circumstances surrounding his death are subject to investigation.

In a statement signed by the Consul-General, Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, the mission described the deaths as “deeply troubling” and called for appropriate investigations.

The Consulate said the deaths occurring in quick succession had raised concerns about what appeared to be a pattern of Nigerians being targeted in South Africa.

It urged Nigerians living in the country to remain calm, law-abiding and security-conscious, particularly amid concerns over xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks, threats and other forms of ill-treatment.

The mission also expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and called for the relevant authorities to ensure that justice is served.

Fani-Kayode said the latest deaths have brought to 12 the number of Nigerians allegedly killed in South Africa in 2026.

He further stated that 112 Nigerians have been killed in South Africa since 2022, including 32 allegedly killed by members of the South African security forces.

The figures and circumstances surrounding the reported deaths remain matters requiring verification and investigation by the relevant South African authorities.