FG demands SA investigate killing of two Nigerians amid xenophobia fears
FG demands South Africa investigate the Sept 4 killing of Bishop Taiwo Michael Fakunle in Kensington, Johannesburg and Sept 5 death of James Uchechukwu Nwankwo in Somerset, Cape Town following what it described as 'gruesome interrogation techniques' by SAPS officers, citing xenophobic attack concerns. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs statement, issued Sept 11, condemned both killings and urged SA authorities to conduct transparent investigations.
These deaths add to recurring Afrophobic violence against foreigners in SA, prompting Nigeria's diplomatic and parliamentary response. The National Assembly suspended all official visits to SA on Sept 11, directing boycott of SA-hosted legislative engagements. Nigeria has evacuated 1,640 citizens affected by attacks since June—1,385 govt-sponsored via Air Peace/ValueJet flights, 255 through philanthropic support. The Redeemed Christian Church of God donated $265,854 to evacuate 500 distressed Nigerians.
While Nigeria engages SA through diplomatic channels (including an unsigned Early Warning Mechanism MoU), it's considering stronger measures to protect citizens abroad. Will you support stricter protections for Nigerians overseas, or believe diplomatic engagement alone can curb xenophobic violence?