Following the killing of two Nigerian nationals, Bishop Michael Fakunle and James Nwankwo, in separate incidents in South Africa, outrage are pouring in like a torrential rainfall among Nigerians.
Fakunle, an indigene of Iye in the Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, was allegedly shot dead by unknown persons at his residence in Johannesburg on September 4, after reportedly receiving a series of threats.
Nwankwo, on the other hand, reportedly died on September 5 following what has been described as “gruesome interrogation techniques” allegedly used by officers of the South African Police Service.
The sad development has also generated reactions from Nigerians on social media.
Chibuzor Anucha, writing on X as @royalchi, described Fakunle’s killing as “heartbreaking and deeply disturbing,” calling for a thorough investigation and justice for his family.
James Agberebi (@jaymeshelsing) wrote, “With all the senseless killings in that useless country, yet some Nigerians still refused to leave.”
Another user, Musan Zariya (@Musa95Aliu), called for tougher measures, including the recall of Nigeria’s ambassador, nationalisation of South African assets and blocking capital inflows into the country.
Ibrahim James (@dazzlag_) said Nigeria could no longer afford to respond to the alleged mistreatment of its citizens with “diplomatic niceties,” calling for stronger measures and reciprocity.
However, Olatunji Azeez (@tj_attires) cautioned against turning legitimate concerns over attacks on Nigerians into hatred for South Africans as a people.
He said, “Behind every statistic is a Nigerian who left home looking for opportunities. Nigeria should protect its citizens wherever they are. But we also have to be careful not to turn legitimate concerns about attacks into hatred against an entire country or its people.”
The deaths of the duo have ignited concerns over the safety of Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa amid recurring xenophobic attacks and allegations of police brutality.
According to Nigeria’s Ambassador-designate to South Africa, Femi Fani-Kayode, the two men were the seventh and eighth Nigerians allegedly murdered in South Africa this year.
Fani-Kayode, a former Minister of Aviation, said four of the eight Nigerians were allegedly killed by South African police officers.
He said, “Bishop Fakunle and Mr Nwankwo are the 7th and 8th Nigerians to have been murdered in South Africa this year alone.
“Outside of that, over 100 Nigerian nationals have been murdered in South Africa between 2022 and today and over 30 of them were killed by officers of the South African Police Service and South African Defence Force.”
Speaking further, the ambassador-designate said, “What is most disturbing is the fact that despite our constant expressions of concern about this disturbing state of affairs, not one person has been arrested, detained, prosecuted or brought to justice for any of these heinous crimes.”
He described the organisations behind the ultimatum as “racist, xenophobic and Afrophobic” and urged the South African Government to protect Nigerians from their activities.
He added, “Simply put, our patience is wearing thin.”
The development prompted the National Assembly on Friday to suspend all official visits to South Africa and direct its members and officials to boycott legislative activities hosted or organised by South African authorities until further notice.
Source: The Punch online
