The Nigerian community in South Africa has disclosed that at least 105 Nigerians have lost their lives in the country over the past seven years, amid ongoing xenophobic attacks against migrants. This revelation comes in a statement jointly signed by the leaders of the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA), Smart Nwobi, and the Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA), Frank Onyekwelu.
Community Dismisses South African Broadcasting Corporation Report
The statement refuted a report by the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), which was attributed to South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO). The report had claimed that migrants were not being killed in South Africa. The community leaders emphasized that denying or minimizing the concerns raised by migrant communities risks discouraging victims and witnesses from reporting abuses, thereby undermining efforts toward justice, reconciliation, and social cohesion.
Details of Fatal Incidents
According to the statement, migrants, particularly Nigerians, have been victims of fatal xenophobic incidents over the years, including alleged extra-judicial killings, mob attacks, vigilante violence, shootings, and unlawful use of force. The community stressed the importance of responsible public communication while also unveiling the painful realities experienced by Nigerians and other foreign nationals.
The statement provided a breakdown of recorded deaths: In 2019, many Nigerian businesses, shops, and cars were set ablaze through mob violence during xenophobic unrest in Johannesburg, resulting in about 12 deaths from direct attacks, brutality, and mob justice. In 2022, over 17 Nigerians reportedly died from violent attacks, vigilante-style executions, criminal assaults, and alleged brutality by security personnel. In 2023, more than 40 Nigerians were reported dead in incidents ranging from mob violence and alleged police misconduct to unresolved violent encounters.
In 2024, about eight Nigerians lost their lives under tragic circumstances, while in 2025, eight others died in shootings, violent confrontations, and deaths in police custody. From January 2026 to date, over 20 Nigerians have reportedly died during physical encounters involving security personnel, criminal attacks, or suspected extra-judicial actions.
Call for Accountability and Justice
While acknowledging ongoing investigations into several incidents, the group expressed concern over the apparent lack of prosecutions, accountability, or transparent outcomes in many cases, which deepens fear, anxiety, and mistrust within migrant communities. The statement clarified that their position is not intended to undermine South Africa's democratic institutions, law enforcement agencies, or judicial system. It recognized South Africa as a constitutional democracy founded on human rights, equality, justice, and the rule of law, and acknowledged that many South Africans support peaceful coexistence and reject xenophobia.
Demands from South African Authorities
The community urged South African authorities to intensify efforts to protect the lives and rights of all residents, irrespective of nationality or immigration status. It called for thorough, transparent, and impartial investigations into all reported cases involving violent attacks, deaths in custody, and alleged extra-judicial killings. The group also urged the government to strengthen measures against xenophobic violence, vigilantism, mob justice, and unlawful conduct by individuals or security personnel.
Furthermore, the community tasked the government with promoting community dialogue, social integration, and public education aimed at discouraging hatred, stereotyping, and violence against foreign nationals. It also emphasized that suspects should not be condemned without fair investigation and due process, in accordance with the Constitution and the rule of law.
Commitment to Peace and Cooperation
The statement concluded by asserting that no society can thrive where fear, mob justice, or unlawful violence becomes normalized. It reiterated that everyone remains innocent in the eye of the law until proven guilty in a competent court of justice, and that both South Africans and foreign nationals deserve equal protection under the law. The Nigerian community reaffirmed its commitment to peace, lawful conduct, mutual respect, and constructive engagement with South African authorities and communities toward building a safer and more united society for all.
