Two Nigerians Killed in South Africa as Tensions Over Anti-Migrant Attacks Escalate
Vibnexa Media| September 12, 2026
Two Nigerians have been killed in separate incidents in South Africa, according to Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, amid renewed concerns over attacks and violence targeting foreign nationals in the country.
The victims have been identified as Bishop Taiwo Michael Fakunle and James Uchechukwu Nwankwo.
Fakunle was reportedly killed at his residence in Kensington, Johannesburg, on September 4. Nwankwo died in Cape Town the following day under circumstances that have raised concerns among Nigerian authorities.
Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry said it was particularly concerned by allegations surrounding Nwankwo’s death, including claims that he was subjected to gruesome interrogation by South African police officers before his death.
The Nigerian government has called for thorough and transparent investigations into both deaths, urging South African authorities to ensure that anyone found responsible is held accountable.
The incidents come amid renewed tensions surrounding the treatment of migrants in South Africa. Nigerians and other African nationals have faced attacks, intimidation and other forms of xenophobic violence in the country in recent years.
The latest developments have also strained relations between Nigeria and South Africa. Nigeria’s National Assembly announced on Friday that it would suspend official visits and legislative engagements with South Africa over continuing attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals.
The Nigerian government has continued to urge South African authorities to strengthen measures protecting foreign nationals and to take decisive action against perpetrators of xenophobic violence.
The deaths have renewed calls for greater protection of Nigerians living and working in South Africa, while investigations into the circumstances surrounding the two cases continue.
