Abuja dismisses viral claims of xenophobic attacks, intensifies diplomacy as fresh demonstrations loom and probes deaths linked to security encounters.

By Ifeoma Onyekachi

Amid rising concern over anti-foreigner demonstrations in South Africa, the Federal Government has stated that no Nigerian was killed and no Nigerian-owned property was destroyed during the recent protests, countering widespread claims circulating on social media.

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed this in a situation report released on Sunday, noting that Abuja is closely tracking developments following protests in Pretoria and Johannesburg between April 27 and 29.

According to her, while viral images suggested widespread violence and xenophobic attacks, official briefings from South African authorities indicated that the demonstrations were largely peaceful, with security forces only deploying tear gas at intervals to disperse crowds.

She, however, confirmed that two Nigerians died in separate incidents not directly linked to the protests but involving alleged encounters with security personnel.

The victims were identified as Amamiro Chidiebere Emmanuel, who reportedly died from injuries sustained during an interaction with the South African National Defence Force, and Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew, who was found dead following an alleged encounter with metro police officers.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu described both incidents as “condemnable and unacceptable,” stressing that the Nigerian High Commission is actively pursuing investigations to ensure accountability and justice.

The minister further revealed that fresh demonstrations are anticipated between May 4 and 8, prompting intensified diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and South Africa.

She said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had summoned South Africa’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, while Nigerian missions in South Africa remain in continuous contact with local authorities to safeguard citizens.

As part of contingency measures, she disclosed that arrangements are ongoing for the voluntary evacuation of Nigerians willing to return home, with about 130 individuals already registered.

Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to citizen protection, Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the government would continue to engage South Africa constructively to prevent escalation, while recalling Nigeria’s historic role in supporting South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle.

She added that both countries had previously established a bilateral framework, including an early warning mechanism, to manage and prevent crises involving their nationals.