Nigerian Community in South Africa Alleges 105 Deaths in Seven Years Amid Xenophobic Attacks

The Nigerian community in South Africa has alleged that at least 105 Nigerians have been killed in the country over the past seven years. The claim was made in a joint statement by the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) and the Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA). The statement was signed by Smart Nwobi and Frank Onyekwelu, leaders of the two organisations.

Renewed Attacks Spark Concern

The development follows renewed attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa. The groups rejected a report by the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) that cited the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) as saying migrants were not being killed. The Nigerian groups argued that downplaying the concerns of migrant communities could discourage victims from reporting abuses.

“Denying or minimising the concerns raised by migrant communities risks discouraging victims and witnesses from reporting abuses and undermines efforts toward justice, reconciliation, and social cohesion,” the statement read.

Detailed Death Toll from 2019 to 2026

The organisations alleged that Nigerians and other migrants have faced xenophobic attacks, mob violence, extra-judicial killings, shootings, vigilante actions, and unlawful use of force. According to records compiled from community reports, civil society engagements, media publications, and documented incidents, numerous deaths have occurred since 2019.

In 2019, during xenophobic unrest in Johannesburg, several Nigerian-owned businesses and vehicles were destroyed. About 12 Nigerians reportedly lost their lives through mob attacks. In 2022, more than 17 Nigerians were killed through violent attacks, vigilante-style executions, and alleged security brutality. In 2023, over 40 Nigerians died in incidents linked to mob violence, alleged police misconduct, and unresolved violent encounters. About eight Nigerians died in 2024, and another eight in 2025 through shootings, violent confrontations, and deaths in police custody.

“Most recently, from January 2026 till date, over 20 Nigerians have reportedly died during physical encounters involving security personnel, criminal attacks, or suspected extra-judicial actions,” the statement added.

Diplomatic Response

Earlier this month, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner for diplomatic discussions. The meeting followed the reported killings of two Nigerians, Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew. The Federal Government said the engagement aimed to address concerns and their implications for bilateral relations.

Lack of Accountability

While acknowledging ongoing investigations, the Nigerian groups expressed concern over the lack of prosecutions and transparent outcomes in many cases. This has heightened fear and mistrust among migrant communities. The groups stressed that their concerns were not meant to undermine South Africa’s democratic institutions.

“South Africa remains a constitutional democracy founded on the principles of human rights, equality, justice, and the rule of law. We also recognise that many South Africans continue to support peaceful coexistence and reject xenophobia,” the statement said.

Calls for Action

The organisations urged South African authorities to protect all residents regardless of nationality or immigration status. They called for transparent investigations into violent attacks, deaths in custody, and alleged extra-judicial killings. They also urged stronger measures against xenophobia, vigilantism, mob justice, and unlawful conduct by individuals or security personnel.

The groups advocated public education, community dialogue, and social integration programmes to discourage hatred and violence against foreign nationals. “No society can thrive where fear, mob justice, or unlawful violence become normalised,” they stated. “We firmly believe that both South Africans and foreign nationals deserve equal protection under the law.”

Ramaphosa Links Tensions to Illegal Immigration

Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa linked rising xenophobic tensions to concerns over illegal immigration. He warned that undocumented migration was pressuring jobs, public services, and social stability in vulnerable communities. Ramaphosa condemned the attacks, insisting such violence does not reflect South Africa’s values or official policy. He added that criminal elements were exploiting socio-economic frustrations to fuel unrest.