The Federal Government has condemned the deaths of two Nigerians in South Africa, demanding immediate and transparent investigations into the circumstances surrounding their deaths.

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 ministry described as “gruesome interrogation techniques” by officers of the South African Police Service in Somerset, Cape Town.

The government said the incidents were particularly disturbing amid persistent concerns over violence against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.

It urged South African authorities to thoroughly investigate the deaths, identify those responsible and ensure that they are prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The Federal Government also expressed concern that the incidents could further raise questions about the safety of foreigners in South Africa, particularly amid ongoing xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks.

“These killings, happening at a time when foreigners, particularly Africans, are grappling with the devastating impacts of widespread xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks in South Africa, raise questions about the safety of foreigners in the country and the commitment of the South African authorities to curbing targeted attacks against foreigners,” the statement said.