Two More Nigerians Killed Amid South Africa Xenophobia

Two Nigerians, Uchechukwu Nwankwo and Taiwo Fakunle, were killed in South Africa, bringing the total number of Nigerians killed due to recent xenophobic violence to seven. The Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg reported that Taiwo Fakunle was murdered in his residence on Friday, September 4, with his killers still unidentified.

The second victim, James Nwankwo, was killed by South African Police Service officials in Somerset West, Cape Town, a day later. This marks the sixth Nigerian death linked to South African security officials since the xenophobic violence began in April.

The consulate has called on the Independent Police Investigative Directorate to expedite investigations and bring the perpetrators to justice. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed grave concern over the incidents, condemning the actions of security officials and calling for thorough investigations.

The anti-foreigner campaign in South Africa intensified following a June 30 deadline for African foreigners to leave the country, leading to increased tensions and repatriations from several African nations.