By Ignatius Okorocha,Abuja

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) expresses deep concern and strong condemnation over the recurring killings, harassment, and reported abuse of Nigerian nationals in South Africa, following fresh incidents that led to the deaths of Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew under circumstances involving South African security operatives.

These latest tragedies are not isolated events. They form part of a disturbing and persistent pattern of xenophobic violence, discriminatory treatment, and alleged extrajudicial actions targeted at Nigerians living in South Africa and other parts of Africa. This situation is unacceptable, unjustifiable, and a gross violation of the fundamental right to life and human dignity guaranteed under international humanitarian rights law; the African Charter on Human and Peoples rights and a breach of the diplomatic friendship between Nigeria and South Africa. These incessant attacks and mass murders of Nigerians in xenophobic violence are absolutely unacceptable. It is either that the Nigerian government takes steps to sanction South Africa through diplomatic disengagement immediately or the organised civil rights community would be left with no option but to embark on nationwide protests against SOUTH AFRICA and businesses with South African interests in Nigeria.

According to available reports, Amaramiro Emmanuel reportedly died on April 20 after sustaining injuries allegedly inflicted by personnel of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), while Ekpenyong Andrew, who was arrested following an encounter with metro police officers, was later confirmed dead at a Pretoria mortuary under unclear circumstances. These incidents demand urgent, transparent, and independent investigations by South African authorities, including full accountability for all individuals found culpable.

HURIWA notes with concern that repeated assurances from South African authorities have not translated into a lasting end to violence and profiling of Nigerians. This recurring failure raises serious questions about the effectiveness of existing diplomatic engagements and the protection mechanisms available to Nigerian citizens abroad.

We therefore state as follows:
1. Nigeria Must Recalibrate Its Foreign Policy on Reciprocity
Nigeria must urgently review its diplomatic doctrine to reflect the principle of reciprocity and mutual respect. Countries that consistently fail to guarantee the safety, dignity, and rights of Nigerian citizens should not continue to enjoy unqualified diplomatic privileges.
HURIWA believes that diplomacy must not be passive in the face of repeated killings of Nigerians. A firm, strategic, and interest-driven foreign policy is now necessary to protect national dignity and citizen security.
2. Immediate Diplomatic Disengagement with South Africa
We call on the Federal Government of Nigeria to immediately summon the South African High Commissioner in Abuja to demand clear explanations, actionable commitments, and time-bound measures to stop the killings and abuses of Nigerians without which the diplomatic relationship should be frozen in the next 48 hours indefinitely.

Nigeria must also insist on full transparency in ongoing investigations and ensure that victims and their families receive justice without delay.
3. Consideration of Strong Diplomatic Measures
While HURIWA supports peaceful diplomacy, we stress that continued inaction or weak responses will embolden further attacks. Nigeria must be prepared to consider all lawful diplomatic options, including a comprehensive review of bilateral relations with South Africa, should these killings persist without accountability.
4. Reform of Nigeria’s Diaspora Protection Institutions
HURIWA expresses concern over the apparent inefficiency of institutions mandated to protect Nigerians abroad, particularly the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM). There is an urgent need for structural reform, institutional strengthening, and leadership review to ensure competence, neutrality, and effectiveness.
Appointments to such sensitive agencies must be based strictly on merit, experience, and capacity—not political patronage. The protection of Nigerians abroad must never be reduced to partisan politics or public relations exercises.
5. End to the Normalisation of Xenophobic Violence
The continued stereotyping and profiling of Nigerians as criminals in parts of South Africa and elsewhere is dangerous and unacceptable. Such narratives fuel hostility and justify violence against innocent people. Governments across Africa must collectively reject xenophobia in all its forms and enforce strict accountability for perpetrators.
6. Call for African Solidarity Based on Justice
HURIWA reiterates that African unity must not be built on silence in the face of injustice. True Pan-Africanism requires mutual respect, protection of human rights, and equal treatment of all African citizens regardless of nationality.
Nigeria, as a leading African nation, must take a principled stand that protects its citizens while promoting continental stability.
CONCLUSION
HURIWA extends its condolences to the families of the deceased and calls for immediate action to prevent further loss of Nigerian lives abroad. The time for cautious and reactive diplomacy is over. Nigeria must act decisively, firmly, and strategically to protect its citizens wherever they are in the world.
We demand justice, accountability, and urgent reforms—both within South Africa and within Nigeria’s diplomatic and diaspora protection framework.

By David Owei,Bayelsa

Authorities of the Bayelsà State Police Command has arrested and paraded twenty-six (26) suspected criminals involved in alleged illegal possession of firearms,dangerous weapons,advance free fraud,cultism among others.

The State Commissioner of Police,Iyamah Daniel Edebor, told newsmen in his office that the arrest and achievement recorded in the command is in line with the Inspector-General of Police’s IGP Olatunji Ruwan Disu’s marching order on zero tolerance for crime and criminality.

He also reaffirms the unwavering commitments and recorded breakthroughs in crime fighting across Bayelsa State.

He announced that the Police,through the tactical office of the Operation Puff Adder led by CSP Chris Nwaogbo solved a case of stealing of a white Toyota Hiace Bus (Reg. No. SAG 584 EA), valued about ₦145 million.

He stated that the principal suspect, Anyankpele Ebiowei, was arrested in Warri and confessed, leading to the arrest of his accomplices who bought the vehicle without documents, Alhaji Jibo Aluseyni ‘M’ (60yrs) and Hassan Mumuni ‘M’ (48yrs).‎Investigations further reveals that the vehicle was resold through one Sefiu Abbas 38 years to a Lagos-based dealer, Alhaji Sikiru Jimoh (now at large), for ₦38 million. ‎

The team of the Operation Puff Adder, recovered the vehicle in Lagos and all ‎the suspects have confessed and will be charged to court, while effort is ongoing to arrest the fleeing Alhaji Sikiru Jimoh.

He also announced that three suspects were arrested over alleged attempt at armed robbery and illegal possession of firearms.

He said “‎On 14 January 2026 at about 1930 hours, operatives on routine stop-and-search duty at Ebis Road Junction, Biogbolo, Yenagoa, intercepted a mini bus conveying the under-mentioned suspects, all residents of Down Yenagoa in Bayelsa State.”

“During the search, one locally made single-barrel pistol was recovered from one Lucky Boro 24 years. Also Tony Akpose ‘M’ 24 yrs; Tari Lokosi ‘M’ 26 yrs were arrested. Preliminary investigation reveals that the suspects were en route to Tombia Roundabout, Edepie, with intent to rob unsuspecting passengers.”

” ‎All suspects have confessed, and investigation is ongoing. They will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation.”

Also arrested and paraded is one Emmanuel Agadaga Akene ‘m’, an indigene of Ofonibiri Community in Southern Ijaw LGA of Bayelsa State, and currently residing in Ogu Community, Yenagoa LGA following credible intelligence.

“‎The suspect was searched, and one locally made single-barrel pistol concealed in a black polythene bag was recovered. The suspect confessed to the crime and will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation.”

Another case of unlawful possession of firearms was recorded on 22nd April, 2026, at about 0730 hours with one Ojareri Felix ‘m’, aged 25 years, a final-year student of Biology Education at Niger Delta University, Amassoma Community, reported at the Amassoma Divisional Police Headquarters that he was assaulted by one George John ‘m’ at Beans-Up Fast Food located within the university campus.”

“‎Following the report, detectives from the Division swiftly swung into action and traced the suspect to his residence.”

“A search was conducted, in which a locally fabricated pistol, one battle axe, one machete, and other dangerous weapons were recovered. ‎Investigation is ongoing, and the suspect will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation.”

“Also out 0915 hours, operatives of the Safer Highway Patrol at Gloryland Drive along the East/West Road, while on stop-and-search duty, intercepted a Dangote Cement truck (Reg. No. NSR 698 ZS) heading towards the Bayelsa axis.‎The driver, Idris Sheu ‘m’ (34) of Kano State, and three others—Zakari Yahaya ‘m’ (29) of Jigawa State, Sadiq Saidu ‘m’ (23), and Usman Sani ‘m’ (20), both of Kano State—were searched.”

” ‎Two locally made double-barrel guns and eighteen (18) rounds of live cartridges were recovered. ‎The suspects and exhibits have been transferred to SCID Yenagoa for discreet investigation and they will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation.”

The Bayelsà Police Command also announced that a serial killer, who was declared wanted in Eboyin State who led a gang responsible for the killing of CSO Sunday Osule, Hon. Ifeanyi Odah (a serving councillor), Peter Ogenyi a.k.a. Omega, and a traditional ruler, HRH Eze Douglas was arrested in Bayelsà State.

“The Crack Squad, Ebonyi State Command, which had earlier declared him wanted, has been duly notified. Investigation is ongoing.‎(9) STEALING / ARREST OF SUSPECT AND RECOVERY OF EXHIBIT ‎On 25th April 2026 at about 1800hrs, operatives of the Command Punch Alpha Tactical Team (SWAT), while on routine patrol, arrested one Evans Osuru (m), aged 46, at Swali Market Road with a large quantity of cut-to-size 25mm iron rods concealed in bags, suspected to have been vandalized.‎”

“The suspect confessed to stealing the items from Suraina Construction Company yard at Anyama Ijaw. He is currently in custody, and investigation is ongoing. He will be charged to court upon conclusion of the investigation.”

Police Commissioner Iyamah Daniel Edebor also reassured members of the public that the Command remains fully committed to safeguarding lives and property across the State.

“The Command also urges members of the public to continue to support the Police with timely and credible intelligence at all times. Let me reemphasize that no hiding place for criminals in Bayelsa, therefore, criminals are advised to relocate or repent.”

By Jonas Ezieke , Abuja
An Abuja Federal High Court presided over by Hon. Justice M.G Umar on Monday, the 27th day of April 2026, dismissed an application by the immediate past Minister of State for Labour, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, to be joined in a suit no FHC/ABJ/CV/1308/2025; Amobi Ogah v Independent National Electoral Commission.

Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha had, in an application filed by her solicitors, Legal Assent of Wuse, Zone 6, Abuja, sought the leave of court to join in a suit seeking a mandamus order against the Independent National Electoral Commission, to conclude criminal investigations and charge Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha for alleged forgery of some election results at the 2023 National Assembly Election in respect of the Isuikuwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency in Abia state.

The allegations of election forgery had been in contention all through the election tribunal proceedings, between Rt. Hon Amobi Ogah and Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, from the Electoral Tribunal to the Court of Appeal, where judgement was delivered in favour of Rt. Hon Amobi Ogah.

Rt. Hon Amobi Ogah had insisted through his lawyers that the Independent National Electoral Commission should prosecute Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha for forgery of the election result she produced at the tribunal.

The Independent Electoral Commission had also denied in the course of the proceedings that the result she presented in the tribunal did not emanate from their office, thereby confirming the authenticity of the result presented by Rt. Hon Amobi Ogah at the hearing.

Reacting to today’s ruling, counsel to Rt. Hon Amobi Ogah, Umeh Kalu, SAN, who led his team of lawyers from Seasons Law Firm in the course of hearing of the application, applauded the Honourable Court’s judgment, stating that it is in sync with the law and facts presented at the hearing.

He reiterated that Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha had no business in joining the proceedings, as the matter can be effectively and effectually determined between the applicant, Rt. Hon Amobi Ogah and the Independent National Electoral Commission, the defendant.

The Counsel to Nkiru Onyejeocha, who was represented at the ruling by John Agim, SAN, stated that they would review the ruling and decide on their next step.