The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has issued a strong condemnation following the brutal killing of two Nigerian nationals in South Africa, describing the act as “barbaric, senseless, and utterly unacceptable.”
In a statement released by NiDCOM’s spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the Commission’s Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, expressed outrage over the deaths of two Nigerian traders—identified only as Austin and Ayo—who were reportedly gunned down at close range by masked assailants in Durban.
“Such a heinous act is intolerable and reprehensible,” Dabiri-Erewa stated. “These unprovoked killings demand not only condemnation but immediate action. We are calling on South African authorities to leave no stone unturned in their investigation and to swiftly bring the perpetrators to justice.”
According to preliminary, yet unverified reports, the attackers stormed Austin’s office and shot both men at point-blank range before fleeing the scene.
Dabiri-Erewa confirmed that the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa is actively engaged with local authorities and is closely monitoring the ongoing investigation. She emphasized that diplomatic channels are being utilized to ensure justice is served.
The NiDCOM chief also lamented the apparent failure of South Africa to implement the Early Warning Mechanism—a bilateral agreement between Nigeria and South Africa designed to prevent such violent incidents.
“Regrettably, the preventive measures jointly agreed upon by both countries remain dormant,” she said. “It is imperative that South Africa demonstrates its commitment to protecting foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians, who continue to fall victim to avoidable violence.”
Offering condolences to the families of the deceased, Dabiri-Erewa vowed that every effort would be made to support them and ensure accountability.
Amid growing tensions within the Nigerian community in South Africa, she appealed for restraint and urged Nigerians not to resort to retaliatory actions.
“In this time of grief and anger, we call for calm and trust in diplomatic processes. The Acting Nigerian High Commissioner has formally requested a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the killings,” the statement added.
The deaths of Austin and Ayo mark yet another grim chapter in the series of attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa, sparking renewed concern over the safety of African migrants in the country.
NiDCOM reiterated its call for a more robust and consistent implementation of safety protocols and bilateral agreements to prevent further bloodshed.
