NiDCOM Calls For Justice Following Killing Of 2 Nigerians In South Africa

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has strongly condemned the killing of two Nigerian traders in South Africa, describing the act as senseless, barbaric, and unacceptable.

The victims, identified simply as Austin and Ayo, were reportedly shot dead at close range by masked gunmen in Durban. According to unconfirmed reports, the attackers stormed Austin’s office and opened fire, killing both men instantly.

In a statement released by NIDCOM spokesperson Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Dabiri-Erewa confirmed that the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa is already investigating the incident.

“The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission described the killing of two Nigerian traders in South Africa by unknown gunmen as intolerable and senseless, with a call to fish out the culprits.

“She said the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa is looking into the matter. Dabiri-Erewa said this latest unprovoked killing is condemnable and barbaric, calling on South African authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter and expose the perpetrators,” the statement partly read.

Balogun also noted that Dabiri-Erewa lamented the lack of implementation of the early warning mechanisms previously agreed upon by both nations to prevent such incidents.

“She recalled that the early warning mechanism put in place by both countries to prevent such killings is yet to be implemented by South Africa,” the statement added.

Extending her condolences to the bereaved families, Dabiri-Erewa assured them that every effort would be made to ensure justice is served.

In light of growing tensions within the Nigerian community in South Africa, she appealed for calm and urged against retaliation.

“Following tension rising amongst the Nigerian community in South Africa, Dabiri-Erewa has appealed for calm and urged Nigerians not to take laws into their hands while awaiting the outcome of the investigations by the South African police authorities.

“She added that the acting Nigerian high commissioner in South Africa has demanded a thorough and fair investigation into the incident,” the statement stated.