HURIWA demands diplomatic action over alleged killings of Nigerians in South Africa

 The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has condemned the alleged killings of two Nigerian nationals in South Africa, calling on the Federal Government to take urgent diplomatic steps to protect Nigerians living abroad.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the rights advocacy group described the deaths of Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew as disturbing and unacceptable, alleging that the incidents reflected a growing pattern of xenophobic violence and abuse against Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa.

According to HURIWA, Amaramiro Emmanuel reportedly died on April 20 after allegedly sustaining injuries inflicted by personnel of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), while Ekpenyong Andrew, who was arrested during an encounter with metro police officers, was later found dead at a mortuary in Pretoria under unclear circumstances.

The group said the incidents constituted serious human rights violations and threatened the diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and South Africa.

HURIWA called on South African authorities to launch transparent investigations into the deaths and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

The organisation also urged the Nigerian government to review its foreign policy approach to prioritise the safety and welfare of Nigerians abroad. It stressed that countries accused of failing to protect Nigerian citizens should not continue to enjoy unrestricted diplomatic privileges.

The group further called on the Federal Government to summon the South African High Commissioner in Abuja to demand concrete assurances against further attacks on Nigerians. It warned that failure to secure satisfactory commitments should prompt Nigeria to consider suspending diplomatic relations with South Africa.

HURIWA also advocated a comprehensive review of bilateral relations between both countries if attacks on Nigerians persist. It urged reforms in institutions responsible for diaspora affairs, insisting that appointments into such agencies should be based on competence rather than political patronage.

The organisation condemned what it described as the stereotyping of Nigerians as criminals and called on African governments to work collectively to combat xenophobia and promote accountability for abuses.

Emphasising the need for African unity, HURIWA said genuine Pan-African solidarity must be built on mutual respect, justice, and equal treatment of citizens regardless of nationality.

The group extended condolences to the families of the deceased and urged the Nigerian government to adopt a more proactive strategy in protecting Nigerians living overseas.