KEY POINTS

• A Nigerian man, Emeka Clement Uzor, was killed in Johannesburg, prompting strong condemnation from Nigeria’s consulate.
• Authorities in South Africa have promised a full investigation, while Nigerians have been urged to stay calm and pursue justice legally.
• The incident has revived concerns about recurring xenophobic violence against foreigners in South Africa.

The Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg has strongly condemned the killing of a Nigerian citizen, Emeka Clement Uzor, describing the incident as tragic and deeply troubling.

In an official statement released Tuesday, the diplomatic mission said the death of Uzor has heightened anxiety among Nigerians living in South Africa as well as other foreign nationals who may now fear for their safety.

According to the consulate, Uzor was attacked on February 8 in Windsor East, Johannesburg, by a group allegedly led by an individual identified as Xoilani Khumalo.

The mission noted that the news has sent shockwaves through the deceased’s family, members of the Nigerian community, and diplomatic circles, all of whom are demanding accountability and justice.

Appeal for Calm and Respect for Legal Process

While condemning the killing of Uzor, the consulate urged Nigerians residing in South Africa not to resort to retaliation or unlawful actions. Instead, it advised them to remain calm, law-abiding, and patient as investigations proceed.

Officials stressed that justice is more effectively achieved through established legal channels than through emotional reactions that could escalate tensions or expose Nigerians to further risk.

The statement reassured citizens that South African authorities have pledged to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that anyone responsible for the attack on Uzor is prosecuted according to the law.

The diplomatic mission also expressed concern about what it described as attempts by certain individuals to generalise criminal behaviour and unfairly label Nigerians in South Africa as offenders.

It emphasized that such stereotypes are dangerous, misleading, and harmful to law-abiding Nigerians who live, work, and contribute positively to their host communities.

The consulate urged the public and authorities alike to avoid profiling or targeting people based solely on nationality.