The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg has condemned the killing of a Nigerian national, Mr. Wisdom Lotanna Okorie, in South Africa and called on authorities to take decisive measures against the growing threat of xenophobia and afrophobia.
In a statement issued circulated to KTH Daily by Consul-General, Mrs. Nini Okey-Uche, the Consulate said it was deeply saddened by the death of Okorie, who was reportedly killed in his residence in Vereeniging, Gauteng Province, on May 9, 2026. The mission expressed condolences to his family and prayed for the strength to bear the loss.
The Consulate noted that the circumstances surrounding the incident had caused grief among Nigerians in South Africa and across the world, adding that investigations into the killing were still ongoing. It, however, observed that the tragedy occurred against the backdrop of increasing concerns over attacks and threats directed at foreign nationals in South Africa.
Describing the killing as senseless and tragic, the Nigerian mission stressed that no individual should lose his or her life because of nationality, ethnicity or place of origin. It said such acts run contrary to the principles of human dignity, peaceful coexistence, African solidarity and the rule of law championed by both Nigeria and South Africa.
The Consulate also expressed concern over what it described as a resurgence of anti-foreigner sentiments, xenophobic rhetoric and afrophobic attitudes, warning that such developments continue to create fear and insecurity among foreign nationals, including law-abiding Nigerians living in South Africa.
It called on South African authorities to conduct a thorough, transparent and speedy investigation into Okorie’s death and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. The mission further urged the South African government to strengthen efforts aimed at preventing xenophobic violence, protecting vulnerable communities and promoting peaceful coexistence among all residents.
The Consulate also advocated sustained engagement among government institutions, security agencies, community leaders and civil society groups to address the root causes of hostility towards foreigners while tackling crime and criminality without discrimination.
Reaffirming its commitment to the welfare and protection of Nigerians in South Africa, the Consulate pledged to continue advocating for the safety, dignity and lawful treatment of Nigerian citizens across the country.