Abia Condemns Killing of Indigene in South Africa, Demands Justice

The Abia State Government has condemned the killing of Chika Ibe, an indigene of Lokpaukwu in Umunneochi Local Government Area, who was allegedly killed by members of the South African Police Service in Cape Town. Describing the incident as shocking and deeply disturbing, the government called for justice and an immediate end to attacks targeting Nigerians in South Africa.

In a statement issued by Governor Alex Otti's Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, the state expressed condolences to Ibe's family and condemned the alleged brutality captured in videos circulating online. According to the government, the footage appeared to show police officers assaulting and suffocating the victim despite his cries for help, describing the alleged actions as cruel and unacceptable.

The government also noted reports that another Nigerian, Egwabor Patrick, was recently shot and is receiving treatment for serious injuries, raising fresh concerns over the safety of Nigerians living in South Africa. It joined the Federal Government in demanding a swift, transparent and independent investigation into the incident, as well as the arrest and prosecution of those responsible.

Abia further urged the South African authorities to take decisive action to stop recurring attacks on Nigerians, describing the incidents as a sad reflection of relations between African nations. It stressed that Nigerians in the diaspora deserve to live and work in safety without fear of violence or discrimination.

The incident has renewed concerns over the treatment of Nigerians in South Africa, with government officials and community leaders calling for stronger diplomatic engagement and greater protection for Nigerian citizens living abroad.