The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, has called on South Africa to take decisive action against rising xenophobic attacks and the intimidation of foreign nationals.
In a statement delivered by his spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, Guterres expressed serious concern over incidents reported in parts of KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, condemning both criminal acts and rhetoric that incites violence against migrants.
“Violence, vigilantism and all forms of incitement to hatred have no place in an inclusive, democratic society,” he said.
This followed a recent report of the deaths of two Nigerians, Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, in separate incidents linked to escalating tensions in South Africa.
In a statement on Monday, Consul-General Ninikanwa Okey-Uche said Emmanuel died from injuries allegedly sustained after being beaten by personnel of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) on April 20.
She added that Andrew was arrested a day earlier in the Booysens area of Pretoria following an alleged altercation with officers of the Tshwane Metro Police. His body was later found at the Pretoria Central Mortuary.
According to the consulate, the two incidents—both involving security personnel—have sent shockwaves through the Nigerian community and diplomatic circles.
He stressed that such actions undermine the values of an inclusive society, noting that South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle was rooted in international and African solidarity.
The UN chief highlighted the longstanding contributions of migrants to South Africa’s growth, pointing out that the country’s development has benefited from people across the African continent.
While acknowledging the nation’s socio-economic pressures, Guterres welcomed ongoing government efforts, including the National Action Plan against Racism and Xenophobia, aimed at addressing discrimination and social tensions.
He further urged authorities to ensure that investigations into recent attacks are conducted swiftly and independently to guarantee justice for victims.
Guterres also extended his goodwill message to South Africans as they marked Freedom Day, commemorating the country’s democratic progress.
A formal complaint has been lodged with the South African Police Service, while the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has been urged to carry out a full and impartial probe.
“We call on South African authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter and bring the perpetrators to justice,” Okey-Uche said.
“No matter the allegations, there are lawful processes. Everyone should be presumed innocent and granted fair hearing in a court of law. No one should take the law into their hands.”
Okey-Uche said the consulate is in contact with relevant authorities and will support the families of the deceased.
She also cautioned against the growing trend of stereotyping Nigerians as criminals, warning that such narratives are harmful and could further inflame tensions.
The consul-general urged Nigerians living in South Africa to remain calm, law-abiding, and avoid actions that could escalate the situation while investigations are ongoing.
A formal complaint has been lodged with the South African Police Service, while the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has been urged to carry out a full and impartial probe.
“We call on South African authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter and bring the perpetrators to justice,” she said.
“No matter the allegations, there are lawful processes. Everyone should be presumed innocent and granted fair hearing in a court of law. No one should take the law into their hands.”
Okey-Uche said the consulate is in contact with relevant authorities and will support the families of the deceased.
She also cautioned against the growing trend of stereotyping Nigerians as criminals, warning that such narratives are harmful and could further inflame tensions.
The consul-general urged Nigerians living in South Africa to remain calm, law-abiding, and avoid actions that could escalate the situation while investigations are ongoing.
Fresh concerns over xenophobia emerged in South Africa last Tuesday following the circulation of viral videos showing hostility towards African migrants in different parts of the country.