The Federal Government has demanded immediate investigations into the deaths of two Nigerians in South Africa, amid growing concerns over violence against Nigerians and other African nationals in the country.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs identified the deceased as Bishop Taiwo Michael Fakunle and James Uchechukwu Nwankwo.

Fakunle was reportedly murdered at his residence in Kensington, Johannesburg, while Nwankwo allegedly died after being subjected to what the Nigerian government described as gruesome interrogation techniques by officers of the South African Police Service in Somerset, Cape Town.

The Federal Government described the deaths as particularly disturbing, given reports of xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks targeting foreigners in South Africa. It said the incidents raise fresh concerns about the safety of Nigerians and other African nationals in the country.

Nigeria has therefore called on South African authorities to conduct thorough and transparent investigations into both deaths. It also demanded that anyone found responsible be identified and brought to justice in accordance with the law.

The government said it expects South African authorities to demonstrate their commitment to protecting foreigners and preventing targeted attacks, while ensuring accountability for the deaths of the two Nigerians.