Three Nigerians Killed in South Africa in Three Days as Death Toll Rises to 12
September 29, 2026 | Nigeria News | By Naija News Today
Three Nigerian nationals have been killed in separate incidents in South Africa between September 18 and 21, according to Nigerian authorities, bringing the number of Nigerians reported killed in the country this year to 12.
The latest deaths have renewed concerns about the safety of Nigerians living and working in South Africa, where tensions involving foreign nationals have remained a major issue in recent months.The latest deaths have renewed concerns about the safety of Nigerians living and working in South Africa, where tensions involving foreign nationals have remained a major issue in recent months.
The victims were identified as Kenechukwu Christopher Igwemmadu, Olaniyi Olaleye Olatunde and Christian Hillary Nnaemeka. Their deaths occurred in Bloemfontein, Pretoria and Primrose respectively.
According to information released by the Nigerian Consulate-General in Johannesburg, Igwemmadu died in Bloemfontein on September 18. The Consulate said he allegedly fell from a building while attempting to escape what it described as police harassment and brutality. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain subject to investigation.
Olatunde, a security guard, was reportedly shot at a nightclub in Mamelodi East, Pretoria, on September 20. Nigerian authorities said the shooting followed an argument involving a customer. He was later taken to hospital but died from his injuries.
The third victim, Nnaemeka, died in Primrose, Ekurhuleni, on September 21. The Nigerian Consulate said he was allegedly assaulted during an encounter involving members of a content-creation group known as the Sizok’thola team. The allegations surrounding his death have not been established by a court.
Nigeria's Ambassador-designate to South Africa, Femi Fani-Kayode, condemned the deaths and called on South African authorities to investigate the incidents and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. The ambassador said the latest cases bring the number of Nigerians killed in South Africa to 12 in 2026 and 112 since 2022.
The deaths come amid continuing concerns over violence against foreign nationals in South Africa. Earlier this month, Nigerian lawmakers announced the suspension of official engagements with South Africa in response to concerns over attacks on Nigerians.
Nigeria has also been facilitating the voluntary repatriation of citizens from South Africa. Premium Times reported that another 105 Nigerians were repatriated to Nigeria on September 24, with more Nigerians reportedly undergoing clearance for possible evacuation.
The Nigerian Consulate-General has urged South African authorities to conduct thorough investigations into the latest deaths while continuing to engage relevant authorities on the safety and welfare of Nigerians in the country.
The investigations into the three latest deaths are ongoin.
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