The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has strongly condemned the killing of two Nigerian traders in South Africa. The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described the killings as “senseless, barbaric, and unacceptable.”
The victims, identified simply as Austin and Ayo, were reportedly shot dead at close range by masked gunmen in Durban. According to reports, the attackers stormed Austin’s office and opened fire, killing both men instantly.
In a statement issued by NIDCOM’s spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Dabiri-Erewa called for a thorough investigation into the attack and demanded that those responsible be brought to justice. She noted that the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa is already handling the matter.
“This kind of unprovoked killing is totally condemnable. South African authorities must ensure that the perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted,” she said.
Dabiri-Erewa also expressed frustration over the lack of action on the early warning system that was agreed upon by Nigeria and South Africa to prevent such attacks. She urged South African authorities to take the agreement seriously.
She extended condolences to the families of the victims and promised that efforts would be made to ensure justice is served.
Amid rising tension within the Nigerian community in South Africa, the NIDCOM boss appealed for calm and urged Nigerians not to take the law into their own hands. She assured the community that the Acting Nigerian High Commissioner in South Africa has already demanded a full and fair investigation from the authorities.
