Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg Condemns Fatal Shooting of Nigerian National
The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg has expressed deep concern over the suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of Ibe Chika Simon, who was killed during a police operation in Bellville, Cape Town. Authorities have described the situation leading to Simon’s death as questionable and in need of thorough investigation.
A statement issued on July 25 and obtained by The Punch highlighted the consulate’s condemnation of the incident and also addressed the serious injury of another Nigerian, Egwabor Patrick Chukus, who was shot during the same operation on July 23 and is currently receiving medical care.
Footage obtained by The Punch captures the chaos following Simon’s death. One clip shows his lifeless body on the ground surrounded by a distressed crowd, while another depicts the scene as emergency responders wrap the body in white cloth and transport it on a stretcher.
In the videos, onlookers can be seen expressing their anguish and anger, with one man vocally challenging the police. He criticized their actions, stating, “You can’t come here and kill people; this is not how police work.” He insisted on the need for justice, questioning how such police actions could be perceived as lawful.
In its official statement, the consulate condemned the killing of Simon and the injuries inflicted on Chukus, characterizing the police tactics as appalling. They noted that such incidents point to a troubling trend of extrajudicial killings and violations against foreign nationals within South Africa.
The consulate emphasized the importance of respecting human rights, especially in a climate of rising Afrophobic sentiment. They urged South African authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into these tragic events.
While the Nigerian mission acknowledged the necessity for its citizens in South Africa to adhere to local laws, it made it clear that no suspected wrongdoing justifies lethal force or extrajudicial measures. “Suspects are entitled to a fair trial and due process, and no agency should supersede that right,” stated the consulate.
Offering condolences to the families affected, the consulate also encouraged Nigerians in South Africa to remain peaceful and seek justice through legal and diplomatic channels. They reiterated their commitment to the affected families and called for immediate investigations into these tragic incidents, as well as accountability for those responsible.
Recent reports have indicated a surge in violence against Nigerians in South Africa, prompting the Nigerian government to evacuate a total of 1,490 citizens amidst escalating fears. The Nigerian leadership, including President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kassim Shettima, has condemned these acts of violence and indicated that the Nigerian Diaspora Commission will seek reparations from South African authorities for those who have been adversely affected by this rising anti-African sentiment.
