FG fumes over murder of two Nigerians in South Africa, demands probe

The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed outrage over the deaths of two Nigerian citizens in South Africa, demanding an immediate investigation into the incidents. According to a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the victims were Bishop Taiwo Michael Fakunle and James Uchechukwu Nwankwo. Fakunle was allegedly murdered in his Kensington residence in Johannesburg, while Nwankwo's death is said to have occurred following "gruesome interrogation techniques" by South African Police Service officers in Somerset, Cape Town.

The Nigerian government highlighted the distressing nature of these incidents, considering the ongoing concerns over violence targeting Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa. The statement emphasized the need for thorough and transparent investigations, calling on South African authorities to promptly identify those responsible and ensure they face justice according to the local laws.

The statement further expressed concern over the timing of these killings, which come amidst widespread xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks against foreigners in South Africa. It questioned the commitment of South African authorities to protect foreigners and curb such targeted attacks, raising questions about the safety of nationals from other countries in the country.