Johannesburg: Two Nigerians, Bishop Michael Taiwo Fakunle and James Uchechukwu Nwankwo, have been killed in South Africa, prompting calls from Nigeria's High Commissioner Designate to South Africa, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, for the South African Government to ensure the safety of Nigerians in the country and to bring the perpetrators to justice.
According to Ghana Web, Fani-Kayode expressed his shock over the murders of Fakunle and Nwankwo, which have intensified concerns about the security of Nigerians residing in South Africa. The two deaths mark the seventh and eighth Nigerians murdered in South Africa in 2026. Since 2022, more than 100 Nigerians have reportedly been killed in South Africa, over 30 of whom were allegedly killed by officers of the South African Police Service and South African Defence Force.
Fani-Kayode highlighted the disturbing trend that, despite the Nigerian authorities' repeated concerns, no arrests, detentions, prosecutions, or bringing to justice have occurred regarding these murders. He described the murder of Bishop Fakunle, who was shot dead in his home after receiving threats, and the death of Mr. Nwankwo, allegedly due to harsh interrogation techniques by the South African police.
He called on the South African Government to enhance its efforts to protect Nigerians and ensure that those responsible for such violence are held accountable. Fani-Kayode stressed that no one should be targeted and killed simply for being Nigerian.
The Nigerian community in South Africa and the Nigerian Mission have raised concerns about the situation. Additionally, Fani-Kayode mentioned a deadline set by certain South African non-governmental organizations for African nationals, including Nigerians, to leave the country by September 30, accompanied by threats of violence.
Fani-Kayode urged the South African Government to shield Nigerians from the threats posed by these organizations and called for justice for those who have suffered trauma, terror, and killings. He emphasized the importance of strong Nigerian-South African relations but insisted that the violence and discrimination against Nigerians must cease.
He concluded by praying for the souls of Fakunle and Nwankwo, hoping for peace for their departed souls.