S’Africa Silent as Outrage Trails Killing of Two Nigerians

Outrage has continued to trail the killing of two Nigerian nationals in separate incidents in South Africa, amid growing concerns over the safety of Nigerians and other African migrants in the country.

The victims were identified as Bishop Taiwo Michael Fakunle and James Uchechukwu Nwankwo, whose deaths occurred within a day of each other.

Fakunle, an indigene of Iye in Ekiti State, was reportedly shot dead at his residence in Johannesburg on September 4 after allegedly receiving a series of threats.

Nwankwo reportedly died on September 5 in Cape Town following what Nigerian officials described as alleged “gruesome interrogation techniques” by members of the South African Police Service.

The circumstances surrounding Fakunle’s killing remain unclear, with no suspect or motive publicly established. His death has nevertheless heightened concerns among Nigerians living in South Africa, particularly against the background of recurring attacks on foreign nationals.

Nigerian officials have also expressed concern over Nwankwo’s death and called for a proper investigation into the circumstances surrounding his alleged treatment by police.

Nigeria’s Ambassador-designate to South Africa, Femi Fani-Kayode, said the two victims were the seventh and eighth Nigerians allegedly killed in South Africa this year.

He further claimed that four of the eight Nigerians killed this year were allegedly victims of actions involving South African security personnel.

The latest incidents have renewed calls for stronger diplomatic engagement and greater protection for Nigerians living and doing business in South Africa.

The deaths also come against the backdrop of longstanding tensions surrounding xenophobia and attacks on foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians. Human rights groups have previously warned of renewed anti-migrant violence in South Africa and called on authorities to protect foreign nationals and hold perpetrators accountable.

The Nigerian government has condemned the killings and expressed concern over the safety of its citizens in South Africa.

However, the apparent lack of a public response from South African authorities to the latest deaths has fuelled further criticism and anger among Nigerians.

The incidents are likely to increase pressure on both governments to address the safety of Nigerians in South Africa, investigate the deaths transparently and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

The latest developments have once again placed Nigeria-South Africa relations under scrutiny as calls grow for stronger action against violence and discrimination targeting Nigerian nationals.