NIDCOM condemns killing of two Nigerians in South Africa, demands swift investigation and justice.
Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa calls the brutal Durban attack shocking, barbaric, and completely unacceptable.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has strongly condemned the killing of two Nigerian nationals in South Africa, calling the incident a senseless and brutal attack that must not go unpunished.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman and CEO of NIDCOM, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic deaths of two Nigerian traders, identified simply as Austin and Ayo, who were reportedly shot dead at close range by masked gunmen in Durban.
According to early reports, the attackers stormed Austin’s business premises and opened fire without warning, killing both men instantly. While details surrounding the motive remain unclear, the killing has caused fear and outrage within the Nigerian community in South Africa.
In a statement released by NIDCOM’s spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Dabiri-Erewa described the attack as “intolerable, barbaric, and completely unjustifiable.” She confirmed that the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa is already in touch with local authorities to get to the root of the matter.
“The Nigerian High Commission is currently following up on the case. We demand a full investigation by the South African police and the immediate arrest of those responsible,” she stated.
She further expressed disappointment that the early warning mechanism an agreement between the Nigerian and South African governments meant to prevent xenophobic attacks and violent crimes against Nigerians has still not been fully implemented.
“This tragic incident once again highlights the urgent need for South African authorities to take the early warning arrangement seriously,” the statement noted.
Dabiri-Erewa extended her heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and assured them that every effort will be made to ensure justice is served. She emphasized that the Nigerian government, through its diplomatic missions, will continue to engage with South African authorities until the perpetrators are brought to justice.
In light of growing tension within the Nigerian community in South Africa following the attack, she urged citizens to remain calm and allow law enforcement to handle the situation.
“We understand the grief and frustration of our citizens in South Africa, but we appeal for restraint. Do not take the law into your own hands. Let us pursue justice through proper channels,” she added.
The statement also noted that the Acting Nigerian High Commissioner in South Africa has officially demanded a thorough and impartial investigation into the killings, assuring that the matter will be followed closely until a resolution is reached.
