Fani-Kayode Warns South Africa Over Reported Killings of Nigerians

Nigeria’s High Commissioner-designate to South Africa, Femi Fani-Kayode, has warned that Nigeria’s patience is “wearing thin” over the reported killings and alleged mistreatment of Nigerian nationals in South Africa.

Fani-Kayode issued the warning while reacting to the deaths of Nigerian bishop Taiwo Michael Fakunle and James Uchechukwu Nwankwo in separate incidents in South Africa.

Fakunle was reportedly shot dead at his residence in Kensington, Johannesburg, on September 4, 2026. The Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA) said two suspects allegedly gained access to his home and opened fire, reportedly shooting him several times. The association has called for a thorough investigation and justice for the deceased.

Nwankwo reportedly died the following day in an incident involving officers of the South African Police Service. Fani-Kayode alleged that his death followed what he described as “gruesome interrogation techniques” by police officers. The allegation has not been independently established by a court.

Reacting to the two deaths in a statement shared on social media, Fani-Kayode described Fakunle’s killing as “mortifying” and “deeply shocking.” He also expressed concern over the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa.

The former Minister of Aviation claimed that Fakunle and Nwankwo were the seventh and eighth Nigerians allegedly killed in South Africa in 2026. He further alleged that more than 100 Nigerians had been killed in the country since 2022, including deaths allegedly involving South African police and defence personnel. These figures were presented as claims by Fani-Kayode and have not been independently verified.

Fani-Kayode urged the South African government to intensify efforts to protect Nigerians and investigate the reported deaths.

“No-one deserves to be targeted and murdered simply because they are Nigerian,” he said, warning that continued attacks could have consequences.

He also raised concerns over alleged threats by some South African groups against African nationals, including Nigerians, and called on the authorities to prevent intimidation and unlawful violence.

His comments came amid growing diplomatic concerns over anti-migrant violence in South Africa. Nigeria’s National Assembly recently suspended official visits and legislative participation in South African-hosted activities over reported attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals.