The Federal Government says no Nigerian was killed and no Nigerian-owned property was destroyed during recent anti-foreigner protests in parts of South Africa.
This was disclosed by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, in a report shared on her X handle on Sunday.
She said the government is monitoring the situation closely after protests in cities such as Pretoria and Johannesburg between April 27 and 29, 2026.
According to her, South African authorities described the protests as mostly peaceful, although police used tear gas in some areas.
However, she confirmed that two Nigerians died in separate incidents not directly linked to the protests. One died after an encounter with soldiers, while another was found dead following an alleged confrontation with metro police.
She said both deaths are being treated as serious and unacceptable, and Nigeria is working through its High Commission to investigate and seek justice.
The minister also warned that further protests are expected between May 4 and 8, 2026. She added that Nigeria has summoned South Africa’s High Commissioner and is stepping up diplomatic talks.
She also said about 130 Nigerians have already registered for voluntary evacuation back home.
