NIDCOM’s Dabiri-Erewa Slams Killing Of Nigerians In South Africa

NIDCOM Chairman, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, condemns the senseless killing of two Nigerian traders in South Africa, calling for justice and calm within the Nigerian community

The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has strongly condemned the senseless killing of two Nigerian traders in Durban, South Africa by yet-to-be-identified masked gunmen.

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In a statement issued by the Commission’s spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the NIDCOM boss described the incident as “barbaric and totally unacceptable,” urging South African authorities to launch a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.

According to preliminary reports, the victims, simply identified as Austin and Ayo, were shot at close range by masked assailants while in Austin’s office. Both were confirmed dead on the spot.

Dabiri-Erewa expressed deep concern over the continuous targeted violence against Nigerians in South Africa, stating:

“This latest unprovoked killing is condemnable and intolerable. We demand that South African authorities fish out those responsible and ensure justice is served.”

She recalled that a bilateral early warning mechanism between Nigeria and South Africa—designed to prevent such attacks—has yet to be implemented effectively by the South African side.

This latest unprovoked killing is condemnable and intolerable. We demand that South African authorities fish out those responsible and ensure justice is served.

Offering her condolences to the families of the deceased, Dabiri-Erewa assured them that the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa is fully engaged and seeking a transparent and fair investigation into the matter.

She added that the Acting Nigerian High Commissioner has formally demanded swift action from South African authorities, while also calling on Nigerians in the community to remain calm and law-abiding.

“We understand the anger and frustration this incident may cause, but we urge Nigerians in South Africa to stay calm and not take the law into their hands,” she appealed.

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The killing has sparked renewed tension among the Nigerian diaspora community, further intensifying the call for better protection of foreign nationals in South Africa.