15th June, 2026 | News

NUSA Alleges Security Forces Responsible for Deaths of Nigerians in South Africa

The spokesperson of the Nigeria Union South Africa (NUSA), Akindele Olunloyo, has alleged that Nigerian nationals and other African migrants in South Africa are increasingly falling victim to extrajudicial actions by security personnel, including police officers and members of the military.

Speaking in an interview, Olunloyo disputed reports suggesting that two Nigerians who died in South Africa in April 2026 were victims of xenophobic violence. Instead, he claimed that both deaths were linked to the actions of South African security agencies.

According to him, while anti-foreigner demonstrations have occurred in parts of South Africa this year, no Nigerian was directly killed during those protests.

Claims Surrounding the Death of Ekmeyong Andrew

Olunloyo alleged that Ekmeyong Andrew was arrested in Pretoria on April 19, 2026, following an encounter with metropolitan law enforcement officers.

He claimed that security personnel searched Andrew and later conducted a search of his residence but reportedly found no evidence implicating him in any criminal activity.

According to Olunloyo, Andrew was later found dead at the Pretoria Central Mortuary on April 20, a day after his arrest. He alleged that the circumstances surrounding the death raised serious concerns and called for a thorough investigation.

Allegations Regarding Aramiru Emmanuel

The NUSA spokesperson also alleged that another Nigerian, Aramiru Emmanuel, died after sustaining injuries during an encounter with members of the South African National Defence Force.

According to Olunloyo, Emmanuel was arrested by soldiers and later succumbed to injuries allegedly inflicted during the arrest process.

He argued that both incidents point to what he described as a troubling pattern involving Nigerian nationals and South African security agencies.

Concerns Over Accountability

Olunloyo expressed concern over what he described as a lack of accountability in cases involving the deaths of Nigerians allegedly linked to law enforcement officials.

He noted that several incidents have reportedly been referred to South Africa’s Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), but claimed that few cases have resulted in successful prosecutions or convictions.

According to him, the absence of visible justice has contributed to growing frustration among members of the Nigerian community in South Africa.

Xenophobia Remains a Challenge

While maintaining that the two April deaths were not xenophobic killings, Olunloyo acknowledged that anti-migrant sentiment remains a significant issue in South Africa.

He explained that although xenophobic attitudes themselves are not criminal offences under South African law, actions arising from such beliefs can constitute criminal conduct.

He further argued that hostility towards foreign nationals continues to affect many migrant communities and contributes to tensions within the country.

Historical Concerns Over Violence Against Nigerians

Olunloyo said incidents involving violence against Nigerians have been recorded since the end of apartheid, citing major outbreaks of xenophobic unrest in 2008, 2015, and 2019.

He referenced figures previously released by Nigerian officials indicating that dozens of Nigerians lost their lives in South Africa between 2016 and 2017, while also alleging that some deaths were linked to law enforcement actions.

According to him, several incidents involving Nigerian nationals over the years have raised concerns about excessive force and alleged abuses by security personnel.

Call for Bilateral Action

Olunloyo urged both the Nigerian and South African governments to strengthen cooperation in protecting Nigerian citizens living in South Africa.

He called for transparent investigations into allegations involving security agencies and stressed the importance of ensuring accountability whenever rights violations occur.

The NUSA spokesperson also appealed for stronger measures to address violence against migrants and to promote the safety and welfare of Nigerians residing in South Africa.