The death of Julius Chukwunta, a 37-year-old Nigerian, at the hands of four South African men has sparked outrage and widespread condemnation within the Nigerian community in South Africa and beyond.
The Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA) has vowed to pursue justice, describing the incident as a gross violation of human rights and a tragic loss of life.
Chukwunta, a native of Aninri Local Government Area in Enugu State, met his untimely death on December 7, 2024.
The tragic incident occurred while he was driving to his home in the Midrand Protea Estate.
According to reports, four men blocked his path as he approached his residence.
What began as a confrontation quickly escalated when Chukwunta sought help at the estate’s security office.
Instead of finding safety, he was allegedly attacked by the four men, leaving him with severe head injuries.
His female companion, who was in the car during the attack, rushed to the security office.
To her horror, she discovered Chukwunta lying in a pool of blood, severely injured and helpless.
She pleaded for assistance, but both the security staff and nearby residents reportedly refused to intervene.
For over an hour, no one called for emergency help.
It was only after she contacted her father that family members arrived to take him to Tembisa General Hospital.
Chukwunta was placed on life support upon his arrival at the hospital.
However, despite the efforts of medical staff, he succumbed to his injuries three days later, on December 10, 2024.
NICASA President-General, Dr Frank Onyekwelu, expressed deep sorrow over the incident.
“This is not just a personal loss for the family; it is a painful reminder of the dangers Nigerians face in South Africa,” he said.
The case was promptly reported to the police by Chukwunta’s partner, leading to the arrest of the four suspects.
They were identified as South African men aged 20, 24, 27, and 28.
The case was registered under file number 262/12/2024 at the Midrand Police Station.
On December 13, 2024, the suspects appeared before the Alexandra Magistrate Court, where they were charged with murder.
Three of the suspects were granted bail of R10,000 each during proceedings on December 18, 2024.
The fourth suspect has not yet applied for bail, and the case has been adjourned to February 3, 2025.
The decision to grant bail has been met with widespread criticism from the Nigerian community.
Dr Onyekwelu voiced his disappointment with the court’s proceedings.
“Nigerian lives must be valued, and this injustice cannot stand unchallenged,” he said.
The death of Chukwunta has united Nigerians in South Africa, who have vowed to ensure justice is served.
Dr Onyekwelu reassured the family that NICASA would stand by them during this difficult time.
“We will not rest until those responsible are held accountable,” he declared.
Chukwunta’s tragic death is not an isolated incident.
Over the years, there have been numerous reports of violence and discrimination against Nigerians living in South Africa.
Activists argue that these attacks highlight deep-seated xenophobia that must be addressed by both governments.
Many Nigerians have taken to social media to express their anger and call for justice for Chukwunta.
“This is not just about Julius; it’s about the safety and dignity of every Nigerian abroad,” wrote one user.
Others have called on the Nigerian government to take a stronger stance against attacks on its citizens in foreign countries.
“The government must act decisively to protect Nigerians everywhere,” said another.
