A Nigerian man was reportedly shot dead outside his shop in South Africa in what has heightened fears over rising xenophobic tensions in parts of the country.

According to reports, the victim was attacked by unidentified gunmen while outside his business premises. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but he was pronounced dead. Authorities have launched an investigation into the killing, although no arrests have been announced.

The incident comes as concerns grow over anti-foreigner sentiment in South Africa, where migrants from several African countries, including Nigeria, have repeatedly been targeted during outbreaks of xenophobic violence. Community leaders have urged residents to remain calm and avoid retaliatory actions while allowing law enforcement agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

The Nigerian community in South Africa has condemned the killing, calling on the South African government to ensure justice is served and to strengthen measures to protect foreign nationals living and working in the country.

Officials are yet to confirm whether the attack was directly linked to xenophobia or other criminal motives. Investigations are ongoing.