The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has strongly condemned the brutal killing of two Nigerian traders in Durban, South Africa.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described the incident as both intolerable and senseless.
Moreover, according to a statement released on Tuesday by NiDCOM’s Director of Media and Public Relations, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the victims, Austin and Ayo, were killed at close range.
According to reports, the Masked gunmen stormed Austin’s office and opened fire, instantly killing him and his friend.
“This latest unprovoked killing is condemnable and barbaric,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
Immediately after the incident, Nigeria’s High Commission in South Africa began looking into the matter. She urged South African authorities to launch a thorough investigation and arrest those responsible.
Furthermore, both victims were part of the Nigerian business community in Durban. Their deaths have sparked anger and fear within the Nigerian diaspora.
Dabiri-Erewa reminded both nations of their agreement to establish an early warning system. Nevertheless, she noted that South Africa had not properly implemented the system.
“This cannot continue,” she added. “Our citizens deserve protection abroad.”
In addition, she extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving families. At the same time, she assured them of ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure justice.
“We sympathise with the families and stand with them during this painful time,” she said. “We will closely monitor this case until justice is served.”
Tension is already rising among Nigerians living in South Africa. In response to this, Dabiri-Erewa urged them not to retaliate or take the law into their own hands.
“Let us allow South African police to do their job,” she pleaded. “We must not resort to violence.”
Moreover, she confirmed that the Acting Nigerian High Commissioner in South Africa had already demanded an impartial and thorough investigation.
This killing adds to the long list of attacks against Nigerians living in South Africa. As a result, many now question how long the violence will continue.
For now, NiDCOM has vowed not to back down. It continues to call on South African authorities to take immediate action and end these attacks once and for all.
