A Nigerian evacuee has described the fatal mob attack on a compatriot during the latest wave of xenophobic violence in South Africa, saying the victim was beaten to death with sticks.
According to a Vanguard report published on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, Maduabuchukwu John Okeke, an indigene of Anambra State who was recently evacuated to Nigeria, recounted witnessing the attack.
Okeke said the victim was among a group of Nigerians targeted by armed attackers. Although they attempted to flee, the deceased was overpowered and repeatedly struck with sticks.
“One of us passed away yesterday because of this. They were hitting the guy with stick and the guy passed away yesterday,” Okeke said.
He described the incident as evidence of the severity of the xenophobic attacks, adding that many Nigerians and other foreign nationals have been forced to abandon their homes, jobs, and businesses to escape the violence.
Okeke’s account adds to similar testimonies from other returnees, who have reported harassment, physical assaults, and discrimination while calling on the Nigerian and South African governments to strengthen measures to protect foreign nationals and prevent further attacks.
