Growing concern has arisen following reports that two Nigerians died in separate incidents in South Africa.
The Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg has called for an immediate and transparent investigation.
This followed the deaths of Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew. Meanwhile, the incidents have unsettled Nigerians living in the country.
According to officials, the cases have been formally reported to South African authorities.
The first incident involved Emmanuel, who reportedly died on April 20. He sustained injuries allegedly inflicted by personnel of the South African National Defence Force.
In addition, a second case involved Andrew, who was arrested on April 19. The arrest took place in the Booysens area of Pretoria after an alleged altercation. Meanwhile, his death was later confirmed after his body was found at the Pretoria Central Mortuary.
The sequence of events after his arrest has raised serious concerns. Furthermore, questions have been asked about how the situation escalated.
Reacting to the incidents, the Nigerian Consul-General, Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, described the situation as troubling.
She confirmed that official complaints have been filed with the South African Police Service.
According to her, “regardless of any allegations, due legal process must be followed.”
The consulate also warned against profiling Nigerians as criminals. It described such actions as harmful and capable of increasing tension.
Meanwhile, Nigerians living in South Africa have been advised to remain calm and law-abiding.
